Search Warrant Yields Illegal Drugs and Stolen Guns
August 12, 2022
The Tallahassee Police Department (TPD) is committed to addressing illegal drug activity in the community. In June, TPD began a months-long investigation of a suspect who was reportedly selling methamphetamine and fentanyl out of a residence in the 2000 block of Chuli Nene. Following a thorough investigation, probable cause was developed, and a search warrant was obtained for the residence.
On Aug. 11, members of TPD's General Narcotics Unit, Drug Interdiction Unit, Violent Crimes Response Team, Community Oriented Policing and Problem Solving Squad, and the K-9 Unit executed a search warrant at the residence. When detectives entered the residence, multiple people were located inside. Two people were found to have active warrants and were immediately taken into custody.
A search of the residence initially revealed more than 10 grams of methamphetamine and nearly two grams of synthetic cannabinoids were recovered. Additionally, a small safe was located with more than 300 grams of methamphetamine, many of which were packaged for sale, and 10 grams of fentanyl. Detectives also recovered two handguns inside the residence, both of which were reported stolen.
The success of this operation is a testament to TPD's effort to address drug-related issues that have the potential to decrease safety and the overall quality of life for the citizens of Tallahassee. If you see illegal activity, you are urged to report it by calling TPD at 850-891-4200. You can also remain anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at 850-574-TIPS.
Arrested:
- Keri Merchant, 30, for trafficking in methamphetamine, the sale or delivery of methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine with intent to sell, possession of drug paraphernalia and maintaining a drug house
- Ramon Velazquez, 42, for trafficking in fentanyl, trafficking in methamphetamine over 200 grams, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, maintaining a drug house and possession of drug paraphernalia
- Kyle Randolph, 34, for outstanding warrants and resisting a search warrant
- Thomas Barton, 25, for an outstanding warrant
- Tiffany Diestelhorst, 34, for possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia
Sign up to receive City news via text and/or email