Sarasota Police “Operation Safe Summer” yields 54 arrests, recovers 34 illegal firearms
Francesco Abbruzzino, The Uncensored Report, LLC
SPD
The Sarasota Police Department successfully recovered 34 illegal firearms in Operation Safe Summer, a months-long initiative aimed at reducing gun violence and promoting community safety. From late May through mid-August, the Community Action Team (CAT), Strategic Investigations Unit (SIU), and Patrol Officers worked cohesively to obtain illegal firearms and substances.
Throughout the operation, Sarasota Police officers executed multiple search warrants in collaboration with neighboring agencies, including the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office. These coordinated efforts allowed for the simultaneous execution of warrants across multiple locations. In addition, our patrol officers were proactive in their duties, actively searching for wanted subjects and conducting high-visibility enforcement to deter criminal activity.
The dedicated efforts of our officers and partners led to the seizure of dozens of illegal weapons, some of which were in the hands of juveniles.
The operation highlights the department’s commitment to proactive measures in combating gun-related crimes and ensuring the safety of our community members, especially our youth.
In addition to the illegal firearms, the operation resulted in the following seizures:
- 950.5 grams of cocaine
- 15.5 grams of fentanyl
- 6.0 grams of heroin
- 20.1 grams of methamphetamine
- 1,410.4 grams of marijuana
- 18.7 grams of oxycodone
- 104.9 grams of synthetic cannabinoids
- $28,625 in cash
Officers made 54 arrests during the operation, resulting in 95 felony and 41 misdemeanor charges.
“This operation is just one example of how we’re working around the clock, often behind the scenes, to keep Sarasota safe,” said Chief Rex Troche. “Even when you don’t see us, our officers are out there, making sure our community is protected from those who pose a threat. We’ll continue to be relentless in our efforts to reduce gun violence and safeguard our residents.”
The Sarasota Police Department is committed to working closely with our community partners to ensure the success of initiatives like Operation Safe Summer. As always, we encourage community members to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
If you have any information regarding illegal or stolen firearms, please call 911 or the non-emergency line at 941-316-1191. Leave an anonymous tip with Crime Stoppers by calling 941-366-TIPS or online at www.sarasotacrimestoppers.com. Together, we can make Sarasota a safer place for everyone.