Fifteen individuals were arrested in a significant gun and drug bust operation led by the FBI and involving over 200 officers and agents from various law enforcement agencies. The operation resulted in the seizure of a substantial amount of drugs, including cocaine, methamphetamine, alprazolam, and fentanyl, along with nine firearms and over $10,000 in cash. The defendants were charged with multiple offenses, including possession with intent to distribute drugs and felon in possession of firearms. This operation reflects the commitment of law enforcement agencies to hold accountable the most dangerous offenders, ensuring community safety and preventing future crimes.
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Fifteen Arrested in FBI Gun, Drug Bust Involving 200+ Agents
I. Introduction
On Thursday, a major operation led by the FBI resulted in the arrest of fifteen individuals involved in an extensive gun and drug trafficking ring. This comprehensive bust involved over 200 officers and agents from the FBI Dallas, the Dallas Police Department, the Dallas Sheriff’s Office, and other local agencies. The operation resulted in the seizure of large quantities of cocaine, methamphetamine, alprazolam, fentanyl, firearms, and a significant amount of cash. The arrests were made as part of a 16-count indictment, charging the defendants with various gun and drug crimes.
II. Arrests and Agencies Involved
A. Fifteen Arrested
As a result of the operation, fifteen individuals were arrested and taken into custody. These arrests mark a significant step in disrupting and dismantling the illegal activities of this gun and drug trafficking organization.
B. More Than 200 Officers and Agents Involved
This operation involved a massive coordinated effort, with over 200 officers and agents from multiple law enforcement agencies working together. The collaboration and joint effort were crucial in successfully executing this operation and ensuring the safety of the community.
C. Collaborating Agencies
The success of this operation was made possible by the collaboration and partnership between various law enforcement agencies. The FBI Dallas, the Dallas Police Department, the Dallas Sheriff’s Office, and other local agencies worked together seamlessly to carry out this operation and bring the individuals involved in these illegal activities to justice.
III. Seized Items
A. Cocaine
Law enforcement seized over 540 grams of cocaine during the operation. The large quantity of cocaine highlights the significant role this drug played in the activities of the gun and drug trafficking organization.
B. Methamphetamine
During the operation, officers seized over 1,100 grams of methamphetamine. The seizure of such a substantial amount of this dangerous drug is a significant blow to the drug trafficking network involved.
C. Alprazolam
More than 150 grams of alprazolam, a controlled substance commonly known as Xanax, was seized during the operation. Alprazolam abuse has been a growing concern, and this seizure reflects the scope of the organization’s involvement in illegal drug distribution.
D. Fentanyl
Law enforcement also confiscated over 7 grams of fentanyl, a highly potent synthetic opioid responsible for a surge in overdose deaths across the country. This seizure highlights the lethal impact of the gun and drug trafficking organization’s activities on the community.
E. Firearms
As part of the operation, officers recovered nine firearms. The seizure of these firearms underscores the dangerous nature of the organization and its involvement in illegal activities.
F. Cash
During the arrest, law enforcement seized over $10,000 in cash. This significant amount of cash indicates the illicit profits generated by the gun and drug trafficking organization.
IV. Charges and Indictments
A. 16-Count Indictment
The fifteen individuals arrested as part of this operation have been charged in a 16-count indictment. The charges include various gun and drug crimes, such as possession with intent to distribute cocaine and felon in possession of firearms.
B. Variety of Gun and Drug Crimes
The indictments encompass a wide range of gun and drug crimes, reflecting the extensive involvement of the arrested individuals in illegal activities. The charges they face carry severe penalties and reflect the commitment of law enforcement to hold them accountable for their actions.
C. Initial Appearances in Federal Court
The defendants began making their initial appearances in federal court on Friday morning before U.S. Magistrate Judge Irma Carrillo Ramirez. These court proceedings mark the first steps in the legal process as the charges against the defendants are formally presented.
V. Statements from Officials
A. U.S. Attorney Leigha Simonton
U.S. Attorney Leigha Simonton expressed the significance of prosecuting these offenders, emphasizing that their apprehension not only holds them accountable for their past wrongdoings but also serves to prevent future crimes. Simonton highlighted the commitment, time, and resources required for an operation of this scale and the dedication of law enforcement officers who willingly risk their personal safety to ensure the security of the community.
B. FBI Special Agent in Charge of the Dallas Field Office Chad Yarbrough
FBI Special Agent in Charge Chad Yarbrough emphasized the goal of building strong cases that disrupt the capabilities of criminal organizations. Yarbrough emphasized the importance of not just incarcerating individuals for short periods but rather seeking to put the most dangerous offenders behind bars for as long as possible.
C. Dallas Police Chief Eddie Garcia
Dallas Police Chief Eddie Garcia thanked the various law enforcement agencies involved in this two-year-long investigation and emphasized the collaborative effort required to combat crime effectively. Garcia acknowledged the downward trend in violent crime in the city of Dallas, attributing it to the hard work of law enforcement officers, community members, and city leaders.
VI. Defendants and Their Charges
A. Alicia Slaughter
Alicia Slaughter has been charged with conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute a controlled substance and possession with the intent to distribute cocaine.
B. Courtney Smith
Courtney Smith faces charges of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute a controlled substance and possession with the intent to distribute cocaine.
C. Edward Williams, aka “Lil ‘E”
Edward Williams, known as “Lil ‘E,” is charged with conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute a controlled substance, possession with the intent to distribute cocaine, and being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.
D. Xavier Barnes
Xavier Barnes has been charged with conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute a controlled substance and possession with the intent to distribute cocaine.
E. Jordan Davis
Jordan Davis is facing charges of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute a controlled substance and possession with the intent to distribute cocaine.
F. Ladarius Holly
Ladarius Holly, a convicted felon, has been charged with being in possession of a firearm.
G. Quentavis Zikeiy Hawkins, aka “Luddy”
Quentavis Zikeiy Hawkins, also known as “Luddy,” has been charged with conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute a controlled substance and possession with the intent to distribute cocaine.
H. Lucis Lugo
Lucis Lugo faces charges of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute a controlled substance and possession with the intent to distribute cocaine.
I. Sebastian Medlock, aka “Blue”
Sebastian Medlock, known as “Blue,” has been charged with being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.
J. Dmarcus Quartez Roderick Moton, aka “Little Cheese”
Dmarcus Quartez Roderick Moton, also known as “Little Cheese,” faces charges of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute a controlled substance, possession with the intent to distribute cocaine, and possession of an unregistered firearm.
K. Christopher Samuel
Christopher Samuel has been charged with being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.
L. Perry Taylor
Perry Taylor faces charges of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute a controlled substance and possession with the intent to distribute cocaine.
M. Anthony Joe Womack
Anthony Joe Womack has been charged with being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.
N. Davonia Hart
Davonia Hart faces charges of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute a controlled substance.
O. Brandon Bedford
Brandon Bedford has been charged with conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute a controlled substance and being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.
VII. Criminal Histories of Defendants
A. Assault
Many of the defendants arrested as part of this operation have extensive criminal histories that include charges of assault. These past offenses highlight the violent nature of their involvement in criminal activities.
B. Aggravated Robbery
Some of the defendants also have charges related to aggravated robbery on their criminal records. These charges reflect their involvement in violent and dangerous criminal activities.
C. Arson
Arson charges are present in the criminal histories of some of the arrested individuals. The inclusion of these charges indicates the breadth of criminal activity in which the defendants have been involved.
D. Deadly Conduct with a Firearm
Several defendants have charges related to deadly conduct with a firearm on their records. This demonstrates their willingness to engage in dangerous and potentially lethal activities in pursuit of their criminal objectives.
E. Manufacture and Delivery of Controlled Substances
The criminal histories of these individuals also include charges related to the manufacture and delivery of controlled substances. These charges underline their significant involvement in the drug trade and their role in facilitating the distribution of illegal substances.
VIII. Presumption of Innocence
In accordance with the principles of the justice system, all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. An indictment merely alleges criminal conduct and does not serve as evidence of guilt. The legal process will determine the defendants’ guilt or innocence based on the evidence presented.
XV. Contact Information
A. Northern District of Texas Office Address
For more information or inquiries regarding this operation, the Northern District of Texas Office can be contacted at the following address:
Northern District of Texas 1100 Commerce Street, Third Floor Dallas, Texas 75242-1699
B. Phone Numbers
If you have any questions or need further assistance regarding this operation, you can reach the Northern District of Texas Office at the following phone numbers:
- Dallas: 214-659-8600
- Fort Worth: 817-252-5200
- Lubbock: 806-472-7351
- Amarillo: 806-324-2356
C. Stay Connected
Stay updated on the latest news and developments by following the Northern District of Texas Office on various social media platforms. Stay connected to receive updates on future operations and important information related to law enforcement efforts.
In conclusion, the arrests made in this significant gun and drug bust serve as a testament to the unwavering commitment and dedication of law enforcement agencies in ensuring the safety and security of our communities. The collaborative effort of multiple agencies highlights the effectiveness of cooperation in combating criminal organizations. As the legal process unfolds, the defendants will have the opportunity to present their cases, and justice will prevail. The successful outcome of this operation serves as a clear message that illegal activities will not be tolerated, and those involved will be held accountable for their actions.