Following up on community concerns regarding an increase in narcotics activity in the area, Tampa Police began a narcotics investigation. On October 12, 2023, Tampa Police Officers obtained a court-ordered search warrant for 3016 N Sanchez Street related to the investigation. Arrests were made on multiple narcotics and weapons charges.
The search warrant resulted in the seizure of one kilogram of Cocaine, 1,246 grams of cocaine, 205.9 grams of Methamphetamine, 104 grams of Fentanyl, 96 grams of Heroin, 9.2 pounds of Marijuana, 14 Oxycodone pills and multiple guns including a silver Taurus .357 revolver, a Semiautomatic Ruger Prescott .380, a black Rossi .357 revolver, a Semiautomatic Sig Sauer P320 .45 caliber, and four 9mm handguns. Almost $40,000 was also seized during the operation.
“This is another example of our department's dedication to quickly acting on community concerns and working to make our community safer," said Chief Bercaw. "We are proud that this committed investigation has removed dangerous drugs and illegally possessed guns from our streets, especially near schools where our children could have been exposed to them."
44-year-old Cornelius Washington was arrested and charged with Armed Trafficking in Cocaine, Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Deliver within 1,000 feet of a School, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, and Possession of Controlled Substance with Intent to Deliver within 1,000 feet of a school.
45-year-old Melvin Lee Gay was also arrested and charged with Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Deliver within 1,000 feet of a School, Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Deliver within 1,000 feet of a School, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.