WEST JORDAN, Utah — A major narcotics investigation led to the seizure of 20,000 fentanyl-laced Oxycodone pills and the arrest of a suspected drug distributor on Thursday, according to authorities. The operation, conducted by the FBI and Utah law enforcement partners, uncovered a significant quantity of counterfeit pills packaged for re-distribution.
How the Investigation Began
The case dates back to May 2025, when the Davis Metro Narcotics Strike Force initiated an investigation with the FBI as part of the Wasatch Metro Drug Task Force. Court documents explain that the operation targeted a drug trafficking organization believed to be pushing fentanyl-contaminated pills across northern Utah. Through what officials described as “advanced investigative techniques,” investigators identified Norlan Guillermo Andino Torres, 33, as a key local distributor.
Vehicle Take-Down Leads to Arrest
Investigators secured warrants for both Torres’ home and his vehicle before launching Thursday’s operation. On December 4, task force agents conducted a planned vehicle take-down in the parking lot of a West Jordan retail business. Police said Torres initially complied with commands but then ran on foot when agents attempted to take him into custody. He was apprehended shortly after.
What Officers Found During Searches
A search of Torres’ vehicle uncovered approximately 10,000 fentanyl-laced Oxycodone pills, all packaged in quantities typically used for street-level re-distribution. When officers executed the search warrant at his residence, they discovered an additional 10,000 fentanyl pills along with about an ounce of heroin. Investigators noted that all recovered drugs appeared prepared for distribution within the region.
Charges Filed Against the Suspect
Torres was booked into the Salt Lake County Jail and is facing multiple charges, including:
- Trafficking fentanyl (first-degree felony)
- Distribution of a controlled substance (second-degree felony)
- Failure to stop at the command of law enforcement (class A misdemeanor)
During an interview following his arrest, Torres reportedly told officers he was unlawfully present in the United States, prompting authorities to notify Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Growing Concerns About Fentanyl in Utah
Fentanyl-laced counterfeit pills have become a growing concern for Utah and national officials. Even tiny amounts of fentanyl can be lethal, and counterfeit Oxycodone tablets are often indistinguishable from legitimate prescription medication. Law enforcement agencies across the state continue to issue warnings about the increasing presence of fentanyl in local drug markets.
Ongoing Efforts by the Wasatch Metro Drug Task Force
Authorities say this latest seizure is part of a broader effort to disrupt mid- and high-level drug distribution networks operating throughout northern Utah. The Wasatch Metro Drug Task Force, a partnership between federal, state, and local agencies, continues to target distributors responsible for moving large quantities of synthetic opioids into communities.
Community Safety Reminders
Local officials urge residents to avoid purchasing any pills outside of licensed pharmacies and to report suspected drug activity. Counterfeit prescription drugs remain one of the leading sources of fentanyl exposure nationwide.
Conclusion
The seizure of 20,000 fentanyl-laced pills marks one of the more significant drug busts in the region this year, and investigators say their work is ongoing as they continue to trace the broader trafficking network connected to the case.
Have you seen increased drug activity or safety concerns in your neighborhood? Share your experiences in the comments below.
