FORD COUNTY —The Dodge City Police Department’s Special Operations Division successfully executed a search warrant in the 900 block of Otero on Tuesday, leading to the discovery of a significant marijuana distribution operation and the seizure of a large quantity of illegal drugs and firearms.
The search warrant was executed following an extensive investigation sparked by a tip received via Tip411. The anonymous report alerted authorities to individuals involved in the sale of large quantities of THC vape cartridges.
Further investigation revealed a juvenile male was not only advertising and distributing THC products but also attempting to sell firearms on a social media platform.
Authorities arrested two juvenile males and sent them to a juvenile detention facility. They face requested charges including Conspiracy to Distribute Marijuana, Criminal Possession of a Firearm, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Using a Telecommunication Facility to Arrange a Felony Drug Violation, and No Drug Tax Stamp..
During the investigation, detectives recovered over 400 THC vape cartridges, multiple ounces of THC concentrate, raw marijuana, over four pounds of marijuana edibles, a small amount of cocaine, over $1000.00 in cash, and ten firearms, including an AK47 pistol and an SKS rifle.
The total estimated weight of the THC products seized exceeded 4100 grams. The THC vape cartridges alone have a street value of approximately $14,000.00.
In addition to the juvenile arrests, two adults in the home were also arrested. 39-year-old Sara Myers and 40-year-old Juan Perez Tapia both residents of the house, are facing requsted charges of multiple counts of Aggravated Child Endangerment, Endangerment of a Child, and Contributing to a Child’s Misconduct.
They were booked into the Ford County Jail and are being held on $100,000 bond.
The investigation remains active, possibly leading to additional arrests and cases being filed with the Ford County Attorney’s Office.
"This operation also brings attention to the growing epidemic of THC vape use among high school students in Dodge City and across the nation. In recent years, the use of THC vapes has become a significant problem within our schools, with many students turning to these easily concealable devices as a means to consume marijuana. The prevalence of THC vapes among high school students poses serious health risks, including potential addiction, respiratory issues, and exposure to unregulated substances, as many of these cartridges are sold on the black market without proper testing or safety standards." "The Dodge City Police Department is urging parents and guardians to talk to their children about the dangers of THC vapes and to be vigilant about any suspicious behavior."