FLORIDA — Authorities said a one-year-old child was placed into state custody and six people were arrested after a drug bust at a home in Okeechobee County.
Deputies with the Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office carried out a narcotics search warrant Wednesday at a residence on NW 6th Street after investigating suspected drug sales linked to the property.
Investigators reported finding fentanyl, methamphetamine, needles, digital scales, burnt foil and other drug paraphernalia throughout the home, including in areas the toddler could access.
Officials removed the child from the residence and placed the toddler into the custody of the Florida Department of Children and Families due to what deputies described as hazardous living conditions.
Authorities arrested six people and transported them to the Okeechobee County Jail. Officials identified them as Brandy L. Yorke, 46; Jason Cooper, 50; Jennifer N. Sheldon, 37; Cody L. LaGrange, 37; Gilbert Tagle Jr., 57; and Kathy W. Carr, 72. All face charges that include possession of fentanyl, possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.
According to the sheriff’s office, Cooper and Sheldon also face additional charges of child neglect.
Officials said neighbors had filed numerous complaints about the property, reporting heavy foot and vehicle traffic that they believed was consistent with drug activity. Deputies noted that several arrests had previously involved people traveling to and from the residence.
After the search, county code enforcement officials determined the home was unsafe and unfit for habitation. Authorities said the property will be condemned.
The sheriff’s office said tips from community members played a key role in helping investigators build the case, adding that narcotics investigations often take weeks or months to develop.