And Dangerous Drugs Control s3

PRESS RELEASE

OKLAHOMA BUREAU OF NARCOTICS AND DANGEROUS DRUGS CONTROL

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 16, 2011 CONTACT: OBNDD SPOKESMAN MARK WOODWARD, (405) 521-2885 OR (800) 522- 8031

NARCOTICS BUREAU SHUTS DOWN METRO DRUG DISTRIBUTION NETWORK

The Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics (OBN) has shut down a large drug distribution network in the metro area. OBN Spokesman Mark Woodward says dozens of state and local law enforcement officers fanned out around 6:30 a.m. armed with 26 arrest warrants and 3 search warrants for individuals distributing a wide variety of drugs throughout Oklahoma City.

“ Our agency initiated an investigation in November, 2010 targeting several defendants supplying marijuana, cocaine, ecstasy tablets, and prescription drugs to other dealers and users across the metro. Many of these defendants are known gang members in Oklahoma City. Hopefully, this will send a strong and clear message that Oklahoma isn’t a safe haven for drug and gang criminals.” ---Mark Woodward, OBN Spokesman

OBN Director Darrell Weaver says this effort targets those who threaten to ruin Oklahoma communities and families.

"We are pleased today with taking this drug distribution network off the streets with multiple arrests. These conspirators were selling a smorgasbord of drugs including powder cocaine, crack cocaine and prescription drugs. There is no place in our communities for these violators who rob the good we want for our state." ---R. Darrell Weaver, OBN Director

As of 2:00 this afternoon, Woodward says 19 defendants were in custody. They are being booked into the Oklahoma County jail where they will face a variety of charges including Distribution of Controlled Dangerous Substances. Assisting OBN with the arrest warrants this morning included the Edmond Police Department, Oklahoma City Police Department, Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Department, and the U.S. Marshal’s Service.

OBN Agents serving one of 26 arrest warrants throughout the metro area

OBN Agents surround an Oklahoma City home as an arrest warrant is served