WASHINGTON COUNTY, FL – A three-month drug investigation in Washington County has culminated in 12 arrests and three outstanding warrants, according to the Washington County Sheriff’s Department. The arrests were made as part of ongoing efforts to combat narcotics trafficking in the area.
Drug Bust Details and Arrests
The operation targeted narcotics and drug dealers in Washington County, resulting in a series of arrests, including individuals charged with selling methamphetamine, possessing controlled substances, and using communication devices to facilitate felonies.
List of Individuals Arrested:
- Eric J. Hawk, 55, Chipley – Charged with Sale of Methamphetamine
- Brett C. Thames, 32, Cottondale – Charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance Without a Prescription
- Victoria L. Miles, 52, Chipley – Charged with Sale of Methamphetamine, Use of a Communication Device to Facilitate a Felony, Possession of Cocaine, Possession of Marijuana (<20g), and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
- Dimitri L. Davis, 30, Chipley – Charged with Sale/Delivery of Drugs Within 1,000 Feet of a Specified Area
- Billy M. Mingo, 51, Caryville – Charged with Sale of Methamphetamine and Use of a Communication Device to Facilitate a Felony
- Emily M. Van Avery, 35, Caryville – Charged with Sale of Methamphetamine
- Gabriella D. Barnes, 34, Chipley – Charged with Two Counts of Sale of Methamphetamine and Two Counts of Use of a Communication Device to Facilitate a Felony
- Tommy J. Parks, 52, Ebro – Charged with Sale of Methamphetamine, Use of a Communication Device to Facilitate a Felony, and Violation of Probation for Possession of a Controlled Substance
- Vernita A. Hutto, 39, Chipley – Charged with Sale of Methamphetamine
- Cody D. Yates, 41, Chipley – Charged with Sale of Methamphetamine Within 1,000 Feet of a Place of Worship and Use of a Communication Device to Facilitate a Felony
- James W. Davis, 47, Chipley – Charged with Sale of Methamphetamine and Use of a Communication Device to Facilitate a Felony
- Erik L. Hooks, 53, Fort Pierce, FL – Charged with Sale of Methamphetamine
Outstanding Warrants
Authorities have also issued warrants for three additional individuals, who are still at large:
- Jerry R. Cone, 43, Westville – Wanted for Sale of Methamphetamine and Use of a Communication Device to Facilitate a Felony
- Shannon D. Hogan, 45, Vernon – Wanted for Two Counts of Sale of Methamphetamine and Use of a Communication Device to Facilitate a Felony
Investigation and Law Enforcement Efforts
This drug bust is part of a long-term effort by local authorities to dismantle drug trafficking operations in the Washington County area. The sheriff’s department has been working to target and disrupt narcotics trafficking within the community, focusing on the sale of methamphetamine and other controlled substances.
Law enforcement is calling this drug bust a significant win in their ongoing efforts to keep the community safe and reduce the impact of drug-related crimes. Authorities have stated that the investigation is still ongoing, and additional arrests may be made as the probe continues.
Community Impact and Next Steps
While 12 individuals have been arrested, authorities continue to urge residents to report any suspicious activity related to drug trafficking or other criminal behavior. Washington County law enforcement officials have made it clear that they are committed to continuing these efforts to keep their communities safe and ensure that those involved in drug trafficking are held accountable.
Call to Action
What do you think about this drug bust and the ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking in Washington County? Share your thoughts in the comments below and discuss the importance of community safety and law enforcement actions in tackling illegal narcotics trade.
