Orlando Detectives Arrest over 50 Alleged Fentanyl Dealers after 9-Month Operation
Fentanyl is an opioid prescribed by a doctor for a patient who is experiencing ongoing pain. Unfortunately, as with most opioids, Fentanyl is highly addictive and can lead to a severe addiction problem down the road.
With Florida’s fentanyl overdose death toll being higher than that of the national average, it was unfortunately not a surprise when the arrest of 53 fentanyl dealers who have been linked to several overdose deaths was announced. Being arrested with the possession of Fentanyl or any drug is a serious offense. If you have been arrested for the possession of illegal narcotics, you should contact the experienced criminal defense lawyers at Umansky Law Firm.
What is “Operation Good Call?”
On Jun 18, 2021, the Orlando Police Department arrested 53 fentanyl dealers after a nine-month-long investigation called Operation Good Call. The Orlando detectives who worked this case called it Operation Good Call because whenever they would get a phone number for a potential drug dealer, they would say, “Okay, good call” if the dealer agreed to a fentanyl transaction
As for the arrests of the 53 dealers, nine of those arrests were made after being linked to overdose deaths. Another eight arrests were linked to fentanyl overdose cases that resulted in the victim being given Narcan to reverse the effects of the opioid. The remaining 36 arrests were made with help from confidential informants and community members. Two of the fentanyl dealers linked to overdose deaths have been charged with first-degree murder by a grand jury.
What is the Law in Florida Involving the Possession of Fentanyl?
Under Section 893.03(2)(b), F.S. and 893.13(6)(a), F.S in the state of Florida, the possession of Fentanyl, and related substances such as sufentanil, alfentanil, and carfentanil, is currently punishable as a third-degree felony. Additionally, under Florida Law, a third-degree felony is punishable by up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine.
When the crime is more serious, as in the case of possession with intent to sell, manufacture, or delivery of Fentanyl or related substances, then this crime can be charged as a second-degree felony. In Florida, a second-degree felony is punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
Representation Is Important in the Case of Fentanyl Possession
Suppose you’ve been arrested for the possession of Fentanyl or other illegal narcotics. In that case, you’ll likely be treated with negative bias before anyone listens to your side of the story. It is incredibly important that you hire an experienced criminal defense attorney to aggressively defend you with a client-focused approach to your case. The talented team of lawyers at Umansky Law Firm has extensive practice with criminal drug possession cases.
Our legal team uses the following defense strategies to ensure you are given a fair chance and being given the dedicated care we intend for all of our clients:
- Challenge and investigate the evidence against you
- Investigate if the police had probable cause
- Consider the diversion program if you are a first-time offender
For all information regarding our experience with drug-related defense cases, visit our page here.
Orlando Drug Defense Lawyers at The Umansky Law Firm Can Help You
Being arrested for a drug-related crime can be scary and leave you wondering what your options are. When it comes to the next steps, the first call you should make after an arrest is to an experienced Orlando drug defense lawyer.
Umansky Law believes that everyone deserves a second chance. The award-winning team has a combined 100 years of experience defending their clients with the dedication and care it takes to wield positive results. Schedule a free consultation by contacting us here or calling our office.