By Trend News Line 2024-05-07 04:34:48.
Arrests Made in Connection with Fentanyl-laced Drugs
Five individuals have been detained in Austin, Texas, following a series of fentanyl-related overdoses that gripped the city last week. The Austin police Department (APD) confirmed that these arrests were linked to the possession or distribution of crack cocaine contaminated with fentanyl. The crackdown on these suspects was a crucial step in uncovering the source of the lethal drugs responsible for the recent overdose outbreak.
Deadly Outbreak Sparks Investigation
Beginning on Monday, April 29, emergency services witnessed a staggering 1,000% surge in calls related to a potent batch of narcotics believed to be tainted with fentanyl. This alarming increase in opioid-related incidents led to the suspicion of up to nine deaths in Austin. Austin-Travis County EMS reported a total of 79 suspected overdoses, with 438 doses of Narcan administered to counter the effects of the drugs.
By Monday, May 6, the number of opioid overdoses had returned to normal levels, easing the strain on local emergency responders.
Arrested Suspects
The individuals taken into custody by APD include:
– 50-year-old Gary Lewis, charged with possession of fentanyl
– 47-year-old Denise Horton, also charged with possession of fentanyl
– 32-year-old Kanady Rimijo, facing charges for drug delivery
– 30-year-old Marcellus Barron, arrested for drug distribution
– 45-year-old Ronnie Mims, charged with drug possession
Undercover Sting Operation
According to affidavits obtained by KVUE, Rimijo, Barron, Lewis, and Horton were apprehended during a police sting operation that uncovered fentanyl-laced substances. The operation was launched after the sudden spike in opioid-related incidents in Austin, targeting an area known for drug trafficking activities.
During the operation, Rimijo was caught selling crack cocaine to an undercover officer, leading to the discovery of fentanyl-laced marijuana in his possession. Barron was also apprehended for drug distribution, with the substances later testing positive for fentanyl.
Further Investigations
In a separate probe earlier in the week, police identified a suspected dealer responsible for supplying the drugs linked to overdoses in Downtown Austin. Surveillance led to the apprehension of Ronnie Mims, who was found in possession of fentanyl-contaminated crack cocaine.
Additionally, Johnny Lee Wright, arrested in connection with the overdose outbreak, faces charges of unlawful possession of a firearm and is currently held in Travis County Jail.
The apprehension of these individuals marks a significant step towards curbing the distribution of dangerous substances in Austin and safeguarding the community from further harm..
1. suspects arrested after deadly overdose outbreak in Austin
2. suspects arrested in Austin overdose outbreak.