A months-long undercover investigation led to the arrest of 52 people accused of drug-related crimes in Lee County during an operation dubbed by the sheriff's office as "Operation Out of Luck," aimed at curbing the spread of drugs in Southwest Florida.
According to the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, the operation, which targeted both street-level and mid-level drug dealers, resulted in significant seizures of narcotics, firearms, and cash.
Detectives executed more than 30 search warrants, confiscating 40 pounds of cocaine, 42 pounds of methamphetamine, over six pounds of fentanyl, six firearms, and two vehicles. Law enforcement officials also recovered more than $136,000 in cash and several pieces of high-end jewelry.
Sheriff Carmine Marceno said the operation was a collaborative effort involving local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, including the Drug Enforcement Administration. He emphasized the impact of the arrests, citing a 12% decrease in crime in the county over the past year.
Authorities said the investigation will continue, and additional arrests are possible. Those arrested face various charges, including drug trafficking and weapons offenses.
Residents with information about drug-related activity in their neighborhoods are encouraged to contact the Lee County Sheriff’s Office.
If you have information on open cases or illegal activity, contact Southwest Florida Crime Stoppers at 800-780-TIPS (8477), on the P3 app, or on its website . You can remain anonymous, and if your tip leads to an arrest, you may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $3,000.
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