Palatka, FL – A high-risk narcotics investigation in Putnam County resulted in the arrest of a local man after deputies and SWAT members executed a search warrant at a Palatka residence, where they reported finding cocaine and a firearm tied to an ongoing drug case.
Overview of the Investigation
Deputies said the operation stemmed from a multi-month effort to disrupt repeat drug activity at properties known for prior narcotics complaints. According to the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, the search warrant was served at 303 Benham Street, a location already targeted earlier this year for suspected drug distribution.
Officials reported that 69-year-old Albert Leonard was arrested on a warrant connected to the alleged sale of cocaine, and additional cocaine was reportedly found inside the home during the search. A firearm was also recovered.
Details From the Sheriff’s Office
Investigators said Leonard has four prior felony convictions, making the presence of a weapon at the residence a concern for law enforcement. Because deputies believed the property posed elevated risks, SWAT members were deployed to secure the location before the narcotics team entered.
The agency noted that this was the second search at the same property in 2025. The first occurred in April, when deputies reportedly located evidence consistent with drug dealing. Sheriff’s officials said the return to the address underscores the department’s increased focus on repeat-offender homes across the county.
A spokesperson added that, “our drug unit continues to concentrate on properties that show a pattern of narcotics activity, especially those where guns may be present.”
What Deputies Reportedly Found
During the most recent operation, detectives said they recovered:
- Cocaine allegedly packaged for distribution
- A firearm located inside the residence
- Other items believed to be connected to drug activity
Leonard was taken into custody without incident and booked into the Putnam County Jail, where he is being held on a $25,000 bond, according to online jail records referenced in local reporting.
Community Impact and Resident Concerns
People living near Benham Street told authorities they have grown increasingly concerned about repeated law-enforcement activity tied to the property. Deputies said they understand neighborhood frustrations and emphasized that community reports often play a major role in building narcotics cases.
The sheriff’s office stated that it “encourages residents to notify authorities about suspected drug activity,” noting that calls and tips frequently help guide investigative priorities.
Why SWAT Was Used in the Operation
SWAT deployments are not uncommon in Putnam County’s narcotics cases, especially at homes believed to contain weapons or where suspects have prior felony histories. Officials explained that high-risk entries are handled by SWAT to protect both deputies and surrounding residents during the initial approach.
Ongoing Enforcement Efforts
Authorities said the investigation remains active, and additional charges or related arrests may be possible as detectives continue reviewing evidence. The sheriff’s office added that its focus on street-level narcotics cases aims to reduce the flow of illegal drugs into local neighborhoods and prevent repeat offenders from continuing distribution.
Conclusion
Deputies described Leonard’s arrest as part of a broader, sustained effort to target drug houses and repeat offenders across Putnam County. Residents can expect continued enforcement activity as the sheriff’s office pursues individuals and locations linked to ongoing narcotics complaints.
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