In a significant clampdown on the regional narcotics trade, Sacramento County District Attorney Thien Ho and Folsom Police Chief Rick Hillman have publicized the outcomes of a sweeping sting operation named "Operation: Folsom Blues 2.0." The joint effort between multiple law enforcement agencies took place on February 27 and 28, utilizing undercover accounts to orchestrate drug purchases via online marketplaces and social media. The operation led to numerous individuals being apprehended for attempting to sell narcotics across Sacramento, El Dorado, Placer, and Yolo counties, according to the Sacramento County District Attorney's Office.
Those arrested faced charges related to the sale of narcotics in their respective jurisdiction and were administered the Watson advisement, a stern warning of the potential human costs of selling fentanyl, which could result in murder charges should a death ensue. The sweep engaged close to 200 law enforcement members from various local, state, and federal agencies, including the Folsom Police Department, Sacramento-Fentanyl Overdose Response Criminal Investigation Enforcement, and the DEA among others. The Folsom Police Department served as the central command hub for the operation, and traffic enforcement teams focused on street-level narcotic arrests.
The crackdown produced tangible results with "Operation: Folsom Blues 2.0" leading to 51 felony arrests and 38 further misdemeanor or other arrests. Confiscated drugs included ounces of fentanyl, substantial quantities of methamphetamine, mushrooms, cocaine, ecstasy, along with various controlled prescription medications and substances. Additionally, law enforcement seized 25 firearms and approximately $25,000 in cash. In a demonstration of interagency cooperation, this operation showcased a proactive approach in tackling the pressing issue of drug distribution, as the recognized ravages of substances like fentanyl continue to take a toll on communities.
"These coordinated undercover operations are allowing us to identify, arrest, and prosecute a significant number of dealers who are selling fentanyl and other dangerous drugs in our region," Sacramento County District Attorney Thien Ho stated. "My office will continue to participate in these regional stings through Sac – FORCE and our Major Narcotics Unit to stop the flow of drugs into our community, especially deadly fentanyl."
