Multi-agency operation seizes $30,000 in fentanyl and other dangerous street drugs in Polk County

(MENA, Ark. — March 29, 2023) Prosecuting Attorney for the 18^th West Judicial District, Debra Buschman, announced today that on March 22 the 18^th West Drug Task Force, in conjunction with the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Mena Police Department, and Arkansas Probation and Parole seized quantities of the drugs fentanyl, methamphetamine, hydrocodone, Xanax, Suboxone, and marijuana, valued at approximately $30,000, from a group of individuals dealing drugs in the area.

The bust came after a month-long investigation targeting a local counterfeit oxycodone medication ring. The counterfeit pills, sold as 30 mg oxycodone to unsuspecting users, actually contained the dangerous drug fentanyl, which is much deadlier than oxycodone. The bogus pills were blue in color and had “M30” stamped on them.

Law enforcement has noted this type of fake pill usually contains between .2 mg and 5 mg of fentanyl, with dosages varying from pill to pill, making the risk of overdose more likely. For reference, just 2 mg of fentanyl is likely to be fatal to a person. Overdose by inadvertent contact with fentanyl has developed as an emerging hazard to law enforcement due to the intense strength of the drug and its increased prevalence on the street.

In addition to selling locally, the suspects were smuggling these drugs and other contraband into prisons. Equipment and records for the smuggling operation were also confiscated, as well as the mobile devices used to facilitate the transactions. Two individuals have been arrested and warrants are being sought for other individuals involved.