VIRGINIA — A multi-agency drug enforcement operation in Bristol, Virginia, resulted in 45 arrests and the seizure of narcotics, firearms-related evidence and a stolen vehicle, according to police.
The Bristol, Virginia Police Department said the operation was conducted April 23 and April 30 in partnership with the Holston River Regional Drug Task Force, Virginia State Police, the Russell County Sheriff’s Office, Lebanon Police Department, Abingdon Police Department, Damascus Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Authorities said more than 30 law enforcement officers participated in the operation, which targeted illegal drug activity and individuals with outstanding warrants.
Police reported that officers conducted 31 traffic stops, searched 21 vehicles and 26 individuals, and issued seven citations or summonses.
According to investigators, the operation led to 45 arrests, including 33 felony charges and 12 misdemeanor charges. Officers also apprehended 15 wanted individuals.
During the operation, authorities seized approximately 84 grams of methamphetamine, 3 grams of cocaine, 3 grams of fentanyl, five “M30” pills and about 1.6 pounds of marijuana, along with numerous items of drug paraphernalia.
Police also recovered one stolen vehicle and deployed drug K-9 units 17 times during the operation.
“The safety of Bristol residents remains our top priority,” Bristol Police Chief D. Byron Ashbrook said in a statement. “By targeting illegal drug activity and apprehending wanted individuals here, we are helping prevent these crimes from spreading into surrounding communities and protecting the region as a whole.”
