In response to community concerns about increased drug activity in the area, Tampa Police initiated an investigation.
On October 12, 2023, Tampa Police Officers obtained a court-approved search warrant for 3016 N Sanchez Street in connection with the investigation. Subsequent to the search, several individuals were arrested on charges related to drugs and weapons.
The search led to the confiscation of a kilogram of Cocaine, an additional 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 various firearms including a silver Taurus .357 revolver, a Semiautomatic Ruger .380, a Rossi .357 revolver, a Semiautomatic Sig Sauer .45 caliber, and four 9mm handguns. Additionally, nearly $40,000 in cash was 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.”
Cornelius Washington, aged 45, was taken into custody and accused of Armed Trafficking in Cocaine, Possession of Marijuana with the intent to distribute near a school, being a previously convicted felon in possession of a firearm, and Possession of a Controlled Substance with the intent to distribute near a school.
Melvin Lee Gay, also 45, was apprehended and faced charges of Possession of Marijuana with the intent to distribute within 1,000 feet of a school, Possession of Cocaine with the intent to distribute within 1,000 feet of a school, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
