FLORIDA — A Vero Beach man with 30 prior convictions has been arrested following the discovery of a large-scale drug and gun operation, authorities said.
The Indian River County Sheriff’s Office Special Investigations Unit and SWAT team executed a raid on a property on 13th Street Southwest after a months-long investigation.
Deputies seized 12 firearms, including shotguns, rifles, and handguns; over one pound of methamphetamine; nearly six ounces of cocaine; more than two pounds of marijuana; six grams of ecstasy; and hundreds of prescription pills.
Authorities identified the suspect as 50-year-old Andrew Beam, a 30-time convicted felon. His bond has been set at $1.28 million.
Deputies described Beam’s compound as a “drug den,” with frequent traffic of people and a cluttered, unkempt property filled with tires, abandoned cars, and furniture. Neighbors had reportedly raised concerns for years.
Officials said the arrest removes a significant threat from the community and removes dangerous drugs and firearms from the streets.
