Sarasota Police arrest suspect, seize more than 400 grams of cocaine

Francesco Abbruzzino, The Uncensored Report, LLC

 

 

 

 

SPD

 

Sarasota Police Department SWAT officers and Strategic Investigations Unit (SIU) detectives executed a narcotics search warrant at a home at 2105 8th St. on Friday, Jan. 16, 2026.

Detectives began the investigation after receiving a tip provided through the Crime Stoppers of Sarasota County hotline. As a result of the search warrant, detectives arrested Lazaro Armando Rodriguez Gomez, 65.

During the search, detectives discovered approximately $12,000 cash in small denominations and 476 grams of cocaine in both rock and powder form.

Gomez was arrested and is facing charges of:

  • Felony: Trafficking in cocaine, more than 400 grams
  • Misdemeanor: Possession of drug paraphernalia

The following items were seized during the search warrant:

  • Several bags of cocaine in rock and powder form
  • Digital scales that tested positive for cocaine residue
  • Large amounts of cash in small bills
  • Drug paraphernalia

This case remains an active and ongoing investigation.  Anyone with any information is asked to call the Sarasota Police Department Criminal Investigations Division at 941-263-6070 or you can remain anonymous and call Crime Stoppers of Sarasota County at 941-366-TIPS (8477).