Punta Gorda, FL — Authorities in Charlotte County have arrested two individuals following a major drug bust that uncovered cocaine, firearms, and other illegal items inside a home in Punta Gorda.
Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office Executes Search Warrant
On Wednesday, the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) Narcotics Unit, assisted by the SWAT team, carried out a search operation at a residence located on Pendergrass Avenue in Punta Gorda.
During the raid, deputies discovered cocaine, guns, and various drug paraphernalia scattered throughout the property. According to the CCSO, the operation was part of an ongoing effort to curb the spread of narcotics and illegal weapons in the county.
Suspect Caught Selling a Fake Drug
Authorities revealed that one suspect attempted to sell a substance falsely advertised as cocaine, leading to an unusual charge of sale and delivery in lieu of cocaine. The sheriff’s office emphasized that pretending to sell cocaine is treated as seriously as selling the real thing.
Charlotte County Sheriff Bill Prummell commented on the case, stating,
“Selling drugs is asking for trouble enough. Selling fake drugs is putting yourself at an even higher risk. Either way, don’t do it in Charlotte County — or we’ll come knocking on your door soon.”
Two Suspects Arrested at the Scene
Deputies arrested Anthony Belton and Lateapha McBurney at the location, as per the reports.
Anthony Belton has been charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of cocaine, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Lateapha McBurney faces similar charges, including possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of cocaine, possession of drug paraphernalia, and sale and delivery in lieu of cocaine.
Both suspects were taken into custody without incident and transported to the Charlotte County Jail. The sheriff’s office confirmed that the investigation remains ongoing, with more arrests possible as detectives trace the origins of the seized narcotics and weapons.
Sheriff’s Office Cracking Down on Drug Activity
The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office has been intensifying its anti-drug operations across Southwest Florida, particularly in areas known for repeat offenses. Sheriff Prummell reiterated that law enforcement is committed to maintaining a drug-free community, warning potential offenders that “Charlotte County is no safe haven for drug dealers.”
The sheriff also encouraged residents to report suspicious activity related to drug sales or illegal firearm possession, emphasizing that community cooperation plays a crucial role in keeping neighborhoods safe.
Community Reaction and Next Steps
The arrests have sparked local discussion about drug-related crime in Punta Gorda and the need for ongoing community vigilance. Residents expressed relief that another dangerous operation had been dismantled, but many remain concerned about repeat offenders and fake drug sales.
Authorities confirmed that the seized cocaine, firearms, and paraphernalia are being processed as evidence. The case will be referred to the State Attorney’s Office for further prosecution.
What do you think about this latest drug bust in Punta Gorda? Do you believe stricter penalties or more community programs are the key to reducing drug crimes in Charlotte County?
Share your thoughts in the comments below!
