Massive Drug Bust on Jacksonville’s Westside

Following a tip from a concerned citizen, Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters announced the successful execution of warrants at two homes on the Westside and the subsequent arrest of nine individuals in connection with a drug bust. The citizen's alert led the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office Sheriff’s Watch to uncover drug trafficking activities in two Westside residences, one located on Firetower Road and the other on Mauldin Lane.

One resident, who chose to remain anonymous, expressed dismay over the ongoing criminal activities suspected at one of the homes. According to the resident, the activities have resulted in the complete shutdown of the road on multiple occasions. The individual reported observing drug-related comings and goings at the residence at all hours of the night.

Seizure Details

The investigation at the Firetower Road residence led to the discovery and confiscation of a substantial cache of illegal substances, including 994 grams of methamphetamine, 164 grams of fentanyl, 49 grams of cocaine, and 287 grams of marijuana. Additionally, law enforcement authorities seized firearms that were linked to previous attempted murder scenes.

Arrested Individuals and Charges

The following individuals were arrested and charged in connection with the drug bust:

• Thomas Sawyer, 40: Armed traffic in amphetamine or methamphetamine, armed traffic in cocaine, armed: sell methamphetamine, resisting officer without violence
• Autym Speer, 29: Armed possession of fentanyl, three counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, armed possession of cocaine
• Carlos Garcia, 22: Trafficking in dangerous fentanyl, traffic in amphetamine or methamphetamine, traffic in hydrocodone, possession of cocaine with intent to sell, resisting an officer without violence
• Emily Kirksey, 22: Two counts of possession of a controlled substance, resisting an officer without violence
• Ryan Wortman, 37: Possession of a controlled substance, resisting an officer without violence
• Nino Jesus Perez, 41: Possession of a controlled substance, resisting an officer with violence
• Zion Wallace, 21: Possession of over 20 grams of marijuana
• Deontrae Dixon, 23: Two counts of resisting an officer without violence, possession of not more than 20 grams of marijuana
• Kelli Wilson, 47: Resisting an officer without violence

Statement by Sheriff T.K. Waters

In a press conference held on Thursday, Sheriff T.K. Waters emphasized the significance of such operations in combating drug-related issues and gun violence within the community. He highlighted the vital role played by concerned citizens and the sheriff's watch program in collaboration with law enforcement to ensure the safety of the neighborhoods.

JSO underscored the far-reaching impact of the extensive bust, not only in curbing the supply of harmful substances that contribute to addiction but also in thwarting the underlying catalyst for gun-related violence in the area.

The successful outcome of the operation served as a poignant reminder of the pivotal role everyday citizens and community programs play in upholding the safety and well-being of neighborhoods across Jacksonville.