AUSTIN, Texas – Austin police arrested 31-year-old Brett Garza on Thursday in connection with a large-scale fentanyl distribution operation that resulted in the seizure of 9 pounds of fentanyl.
The Investigation and Arrest
Garza was taken into custody on August 14 following a six-month investigation by the Austin Police Department’s Narcotic Support Unit, which had been tracking an ongoing fentanyl operation in the Del Valle area. The investigation began in February after detectives received information about fentanyl distribution in the area.
Police conducted extensive surveillance and multiple controlled drug purchases, which led to Garza being identified, along with other suspects, residences, and vehicles involved in the operation, per CBS
Seizure and Search Warrant
Garza was arrested after leaving a residence under investigation. During the arrest, police found a large amount of fentanyl, cocaine, and cash in his vehicle. The SWAT team assisted in executing a search warrant at the residence, which yielded the following:
- 4 kilograms (9 lbs.) of fentanyl
- 623 grams (1.4 lbs.) of heroin
- 115 grams of cocaine
- Two firearms
- $9,752 in cash
Charges and Booking
Garza was booked into the Travis County Jail. Police are continuing their efforts to dismantle the drug distribution network and hold those involved accountable for trafficking dangerous substances.
“APD’s Narcotic Support Unit is dedicated to holding those selling dangerous illicit drugs, especially fentanyl, accountable for their actions,” Austin police stated in a release.
Public Tips and Reward Information
Authorities are urging anyone with information about illegal drug sales to contact the APD Narcotics Tipline at (512) 974-8609. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Capital Area Crime Stoppers at austincrimestoppers.org or by calling 512-472-8477. Rewards up to $1,000 may be available for information leading to arrests.
The Growing Fentanyl Crisis
The arrest of Garza highlights the growing crisis surrounding fentanyl trafficking in the United States. Fentanyl, a powerful opioid, has been responsible for thousands of overdose deaths across the country, with illicit distribution networks playing a major role in the crisis.
Local law enforcement agencies, like Austin PD, continue to prioritize taking down these networks to reduce the availability of fentanyl and other dangerous substances in their communities.
What are your thoughts on this fentanyl bust in Austin? Share your views and reactions in the comments below!
