The Arizona Attorney General's Office has concluded Operation Double Down, a seven-month multi-agency initiative targeting fentanyl and illegal drug trafficking. Conducted from April to November 2024, the operation involved federal, state, and local agencies collaborating to disrupt a transnational drug trafficking organization. Their efforts led to arrest warrants for 25 suspects and the seizure of approximately 1.7 million fentanyl pills, 26 kilograms of fentanyl powder, 24 kilograms of cocaine, 370 pounds of methamphetamine, 13 pounds of heroin, nearly $210,000 in cash, 14 vehicles, and 28 firearms, according to the Arizona Attorney General's Office.
"Operation Double Down is a powerful example of what can be accomplished when law enforcement agencies at every level work together to combat the deadly flow of fentanyl and other illicit drugs into our communities," said Attorney General Kris Mayes. The operation involved the Phoenix Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Bureau, and state prosecutors. It aimed to reduce the flow of illicit drugs and ensure the long-term prosecution of those involved. "The outcome of this operation is impressive and a testament to the partnerships between local and federal police agencies and prosecutors in this community. We are stronger when we work together and our community is safer as a result," said Interim Chief Michael Sullivan of the Phoenix Police Department, as reported by the Arizona Attorney General's Office.
The Arizona Attorney General's Office announced the results of Operation Double Down, which led to the seizure of deadly narcotics and firearms. DEA Phoenix Special Agent in Charge Cheri Oz stated, "DEA stands alongside our partners as a united front, and we are not stopping. The amount of deadly narcotics and firearms seized in this investigation saved lives. We are law enforcement strong, working together like never before." Arizona High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Director Dawn Mertz said the operation focused on identifying, disrupting, and dismantling drug trafficking organizations through intelligence-driven investigations and coordination with prosecutors.
