SARASOTA COUNTY, Fla. — A year-long investigation into the flow of deadly narcotics across Florida’s Suncoast has resulted in a major tactical takedown. The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) announced the results of “Operation Ice Break,” a massive sweep that dismantled a multi-county trafficking network and put 14 people behind bars.
Running from 2024 through early 2025, the investigation focused on large-scale distribution channels moving methamphetamine and fentanyl through the region. According to investigators, the probe required extensive coordination between local, state, and federal agencies.
By the time the operation concluded, detectives had filed 40 felony charges and removed what they described as “high-level traffickers” from the community.
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Authorities say the network spanned several jurisdictions, with arrests made in Sarasota, Bradenton, Venice, and extending into Pasco County.
The Suspects and Charges
Among those facing the most serious allegations is Michael Chad Bennett, 47, of Sarasota. He is charged with multiple counts, including the sale of controlled substances and trafficking in both methamphetamine and fentanyl.
Investigators also zeroed in on suspects moving significant quantities of narcotics. Peter Thibodeau, 48, of Sarasota, and Trisha Steffes, 44, of Venice, were both charged with conspiracy and trafficking in fentanyl and methamphetamine.
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The operation revealed the reach of the alleged ring, with several suspects facing charges tied to trafficking amounts of 200 grams or more, specifically involving Pasco County. These include Alyssa Duross, 25, of Nokomis; Jesus Pineda, 39, of Sarasota; and Jason Straub, 42, of Englewood.
Other individuals arrested and charged with conspiracy to traffic methamphetamine include:
- Rockford Upton, 57, and Andrew Scott, 32, both of Bradenton. (Scott also faces fentanyl charges).
- Kaitlyn Dupre, 28, of Bradenton (also facing fentanyl charges).
- Ashley Wehrlen, 41, and Dora Jean Dixon, 59, both of Sarasota.
- Eric Walker, 45, of Ona.
Additionally, Jamie Edwards, 42, of Palmetto, was charged with conspiracy to traffic fentanyl, while Walter Lint, 59, of Nokomis, faces charges for possession of hydromorphone.
Manhunt Continues
While the bulk of the network is in custody, deputies are still looking for two suspects. Outstanding warrants have been issued for Jo’Kevious Bell, 34, of Bradenton, who faces three counts related to conspiracy to traffic methamphetamine and fentanyl. Authorities are also searching for Timothy Chipman, 50, of Arcadia, for conspiracy to traffic methamphetamine.
Officials noted that due to the volume of narcotics seized, several of the defendants are facing mandatory minimum prison sentences. The Sheriff’s Office stated that Operation Ice Break serves as a testament to their commitment to fighting the opioid crisis and disrupting the supply chains that bring illicit drugs into local neighborhoods.
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