Charlotte County’s “Operation Poisonous Fruit” Nets 54; Seizes 1000 Grams of Meth, 78 Grams of Fentanyl, Enough To End Lives of 79,000 People

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, FL – Over the past six months, the Narcotics Unit has been conducting “Operation Poisonous Fruit”, resulting in the arrest of 54 people on an abundance of drug charges. 11 others are still at large and are actively being sought out by law enforcement. A large percentage of the arrests stemmed from the area of the “fruit streets” located in South Punta Gorda.

During the six-month operation, 54 cases were developed in which these individuals sold and delivered Fentanyl or Methamphetamine. 27 more cases were made involving trafficking of these drugs, which hold at least a three-year minimum/mandatory sentence.  All of these individuals were additionally charged with simple possession, resulting in 81 additional charges.

“Our community is undeniably safer due to the hard work of the Narcotics Unit and all of the other members who assisted throughout Operation Poisonous Fruit. We will continue to put these dealers behind bars until they get the message. We will not tolerate this poison being dealt on our streets,” Sheriff Prummell states.  “For those who are in hiding, we’re coming for you,” Prummell adds.

Approximately 1000 grams of Methamphetamine and 78.7 grams of Fentanyl were taken off the streets during Operation Poisonous Fruit which is enough to end the lives of 79,000 people. 

The following individuals were arrested:

According to detectives, 11 suspects remain at large.