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AZDPS Trooper Seizes Over 51 Pounds of Fentanyl During Routine Traffic Stop
A routine traffic stop on Wednesday, August 14, 2024, by an Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) trooper quickly escalated into a significant drug bust, leading to the seizure of over 51 pounds of fentanyl pills—one of the largest such seizures in recent memory.
The incident unfolded in the afternoon as the trooper pulled over a Dodge Durango for a civil traffic violation shortly after the vehicle had left the Phoenix area. During the stop, the trooper’s keen observation skills and experience led to the detection of several indicators of potential criminal activity. Trusting his instincts, the trooper called in a drug detection canine to assist with the situation. The trained canine, upon inspection, promptly alerted to the presence of drugs within the vehicle.
With this critical clue in hand, the trooper conducted a thorough search of the SUV. Inside a large tote bag stowed within the vehicle, the trooper uncovered a staggering 51.4 pounds of fentanyl pills. The discovery represents a significant quantity of this dangerous drug, which has been a growing concern across the nation due to its potency and the rising number of overdose deaths it has caused. The street value of the seized fentanyl is estimated to be around $500,000.
The investigation into the seizure suggests that the pills were being transported from Phoenix to the Houston area, indicating a likely involvement in a broader drug trafficking network. The suspect driver, who has not been named at this time, was immediately arrested and taken into custody. The individual now faces serious charges, including possession and transportation of narcotic drugs for sale, and has been booked into the Maricopa County Jail.
Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine and has been a leading cause of drug-related fatalities across the United States. Even a small amount can be lethal, making this seizure a significant victory in the ongoing battle against the opioid crisis.
This successful operation underscores the vigilance and dedication of Arizona’s law enforcement officers in combating the flow of dangerous drugs into communities. The Arizona Department of Public Safety continues to prioritize the safety and security of residents by intercepting drug shipments before they can cause harm.
As investigations continue, this case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that law enforcement officers face daily and the critical role they play in protecting the public from the devastating effects of illegal narcotics. The AZDPS remains committed to stopping drug traffickers in their tracks and ensuring that Arizona’s roads are safe for all.