Palm Bay, FL — In what Brevard County Sheriff Wayne Ivey called the largest bust of its kind in the U.S., law enforcement officials announced the seizure of 92,000 pounds of an illegal substance along with an arsenal of weapons and explosives on Wednesday.
The arrest centers on Maxwell Horvath, 26, who now faces dozens of charges related to the operation. Sheriff Ivey described the seizure as “breaking bad on steroids!!”, highlighting the magnitude of the case.
Month-Long Investigation Involving Multiple Agencies
The investigation began in September and involved coordination between the DEA, ATF, and Palm Bay Police Department. Authorities said the seized substance contained 7-OH, a chemical approximately 13 times more potent than morphine, with an estimated street value of $4.7 million. Florida recently made 7-OH illegal, intensifying the legal stakes.
Horvath reportedly operated Overseas Organics, a Palm Bay-based business, from which agents purchased both illegal drugs and military-grade weapons during the investigation. Sheriff Ivey reported that the facility included chambers, rooms, and sterile environments designed for production.
Weapons and Explosives Seized
In addition to the drugs, agents recovered:
- Five explosive devices and grenade simulators
- Chemicals used to manufacture explosives
- Thousands of pounds of ammunition
- An arsenal of firearms, despite Horvath being a convicted felon legally prohibited from owning weapons
BCSO Public Information Officer Tod Goodyear expressed surprise at the breadth of the armament, noting authorities are still unsure how Horvath obtained the firearms. Horvath previously served two years in federal prison in 2017 for a separate offense.
Legal Proceedings and Federal Charges
Horvath now faces more than 30 counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, along with multiple other charges connected to the drugs and explosives. Federal indictments are pending, and Horvath had his first federal court appearance on Thursday.
Sheriff Ivey emphasized that the timing of the arrest was based on the need to collect sufficient evidence to present a strong case in court. Authorities continue to prioritize public safety as the investigation unfolds.
Community Reaction
Neighbors described Horvath’s grandparents, with whom he lived, as kind and friendly, expressing shock over the scale of his criminal activity. One neighbor remarked, “And I was really surprised at what went on because Angela was very good. And if that’s their grandson, they’re very good grandparents.”
Next Steps and Public Safety Focus
The Brevard County Sheriff’s Office has indicated that the investigation remains active, with a continued focus on public safety. Federal authorities are expected to proceed with indictments, and officials will provide updates as new information becomes available.
What Are Your Thoughts on This Bust?
Do you think law enforcement acted quickly enough, or should there be more preventative measures for felons with access to weapons and explosives? Share your reactions, opinions, and questions in the comments below!
