A months-long investigation by Mesa Police has led to the arrest of two individuals and the seizure of massive quantities of illegal drugs that were being distributed throughout the region.
In November
2025, detectives from the Mesa Police Department began investigating
information that narcotics were being sold from a residence in Mesa.
Surveillance quickly revealed activity consistent with organized drug
distribution, including repeated package deliveries and short stay visits,
typical of trafficking operations.
As detectives
dug deeper, they identified a supply chain that extended beyond a single home. Investigators
linked the deliveries to a suspected courier and, ultimately, to a larger
trafficking network operating from residences from multiple cities.
Over several
weeks, detectives coordinated with regional partners, tracked movements between
multiple properties, and gathered evidence tying the suspects to repeated
narcotics deliveries across the East Valley.
On February 11,
2026, SWAT teams served court-authorized search warrants at two apartments
connected to the investigation.
The evidence
recovered showed just how large the operation was.
Seized during the warrants:
- Approximately 22 pounds of methamphetamine
- More than 5 pounds of fentanyl pills
- Over 4 pounds of fentanyl powder
- Heroin and cocaine
- More than $10,000 in cash
- A handgun
- Packaging materials and equipment consistent with large-scale distribution
Detectives also
recovered additional methamphetamine at a second location after detectives
learned where it was hidden.
The
estimated total value of the seized evidence was over $718,000 dollars.
The primary
suspect was contacted and detained prior to the warrant being served.
A second
suspect admitted to knowing drugs were stored inside of the home and that sales
were taking place.
Both suspects
were booked into jail on drug related charges.
Statement
from Chief
This
investigation reflects the relentless work our officers and detectives put in
every day to keep dangerous drugs out of Mesa. I’m proud of the dedication of
our detectives and the partnerships that helped bring this operation to a
successful conclusion. Because of their efforts, our community is safer. –
Chief Butler
Why This
Investigation Matters to Mesa
Operations like this are not small, street-level cases. They function as supply points that push narcotics into neighborhoods, apartment communities, and roadways throughout Mesa. Cases like these:
- Reduce availability of dangerous and narcotic drugs in our city and surrounding areas
- Protect families and neighborhoods
- Disrupt the criminal networks that drive theft, violence, and repeat victimization
- Save lives
Did You
Know?
Investigations
like this are a reminder that proactive police work matters, and that the work
being done every day by officers and detectives across the city directly
improves safety and quality of life for the people of Mesa.
The success of
this case reflects the persistence and professionalism of Mesa detectives who
remained focused on the investigation long after the initial information was
received. Their attention to detail, collaboration, and commitment to
protecting Mesa neighborhoods resulted in the removal of a significant drug
supply from the community.
