A year-long investigation spearheaded by the Suwannee County Sheriff’s Office has culminated in the dismantling of a major fentanyl trafficking operation and the seizure of over two million potentially lethal doses of the deadly drug. The operation, a collaborative effort across multiple law enforcement agencies, targeted the flow of fentanyl into northern Florida.
Fueled by intelligence gathered by local narcotics investigators and supported by a Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) SAFE Grant, the Suwannee County Sheriff’s Office partnered with the NorthStar Multijurisdictional Drug Task Force, FDLE, and the Department of Homeland Security. This extensive long-term operation identified two key suspects believed to be primary fentanyl suppliers in the region.
After months of meticulous investigative work, authorities arrested Ron Alexis Wilson, 30, also known as “Rooster,” in Tempe, Arizona. His alleged co-conspirator, Johnon Christopher Hughes, 41, known as “Juice,” was apprehended at his residence in Jacksonville, Florida.
The culmination of the investigation led to the seizure of more than 12,500 fentanyl pills and over six pounds of powdered fentanyl, collectively equivalent to over two million potentially lethal doses. Investigators believe these narcotics were intended for widespread distribution throughout northern Florida.
“This operation underscores the deadly impact of fentanyl in our communities and the importance of coordinated law enforcement partnerships in fighting the drug epidemic,” said Suwannee County Sheriff Sam St. John. “Thanks to the tireless efforts of our investigators and partner agencies, countless lives were likely saved.”
Both suspects remain in custody, with Hughes held on a $2 million bond and Wilson currently held without bond.
The Suwannee County Sheriff’s Office expressed its appreciation to all partnering agencies for their collaboration, including the Office of Statewide Prosecution, State Attorney John Durrett and the Third Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), and the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office in Arizona.
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