Tampa, FL — A weekend raid by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) led to the arrest of a 20-year-old Tampa man, after deputies uncovered more than 10 pounds of THC products, various narcotics, cash, and a weapon inside a River Bay Drive home tied to suspected gang activity.
Gang Unit Investigation Leads to SWAT Search Warrant
Authorities said the operation stemmed from an ongoing investigation by the HCSO Gang Unit, which had been monitoring a residence on River Bay Drive for suspected criminal activity connected to organized groups.
After gathering enough evidence, SWAT officers executed a search warrant on Friday, entering the home and detaining Justin Bueso, who investigators say was the primary individual linked to the illegal activity taking place there.
Bueso was booked into Hillsborough County Jail on several misdemeanor charges, though deputies emphasized that the quantity and variety of drugs found at the scene reflected wider criminal networks potentially operating in the area.
Large Quantities of THC and Other Drugs Recovered
Inside the home, deputies discovered a wide range of illegal substances along with cash and a firearm. According to HCSO, the following items were seized during the operation:
- Over 6 lbs. of marijuana
- Approximately 4.5 lbs. of cannabis sativa resin
- Around 120 grams of THC edibles
- More than 80 grams of psychedelic mushrooms
- Roughly 2 ounces of prescription medication
- A Draco pistol
- Approximately $6,700 in cash
Authorities described the bust as significant due to the diversity of illegal products and the presence of a weapon — factors often associated with established gang or distribution networks, as per the reports.
Sheriff Chronister: Criminal Networks “Quietly Operating” in Neighborhoods
In a statement, Sheriff Chad Chronister said the raid is a reminder that criminal groups often attempt to blend into residential communities while running drug operations.
“This is a clear example of how gangs and criminal networks try to quietly operate out of our neighborhoods, stockpiling drugs, weapons, and cash,” Chronister said. “Let this serve as a warning: if you bring this kind of activity into our community, we will find you, and we will hold you accountable. Our residents deserve to feel safe in their homes, not surrounded by criminal enterprises.”
Deputies did not disclose which gang Bueso is associated with or whether further arrests are anticipated, though investigators say the case remains open.
Charges Filed Against 20-Year-Old Suspect
Following the raid, Justin Bueso was charged with:
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- Resisting an officer
- Possession of less than 20 grams of cannabis
Despite the volume of drugs found in the home, deputies stated that the charges filed relate specifically to items determined to be directly linked to Bueso at the time of the search. More charges could be added as the investigation continues and evidence is processed.
HCSO also noted that no additional details were available about other potential suspects, though investigators are reviewing information recovered from the residence and interviewing possible associates.
Community Concerns Rising as Investigators Track Gang Activity
Residents in the area have recently voiced concerns about suspicious behavior, unfamiliar vehicles, and late-night activity tied to the home. Law enforcement officials say investigations like this highlight the importance of community reporting and vigilance.
Authorities added that the growing presence of THC resin, psychedelic mushrooms, and edible-based narcotics reflects broader trends among younger distributors and gang-connected networks across Florida.
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