TAMPA, Fla. – A Pasco County man is facing multiple felony charges following a drug investigation conducted by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO).
Khyas Smith, 19, was arrested on May 7, 2025, after detectives acted on an anonymous tip indicating he was dealing large quantities of drugs throughout the Tampa area and allegedly planning to rob potential buyers during drug transactions.
According to HCSO, the Real Time Crime Center successfully located Smith’s vehicle as it entered Hillsborough County.
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Deputies initiated a traffic stop based on an observed illegal window tint. Upon approaching the vehicle, law enforcement officers reported detecting a strong odor of narcotics emanating from within.
A subsequent search of Smith’s vehicle yielded a quantity of fentanyl, a digital scale exhibiting white powder residue, and various items of drug paraphernalia. Authorities also discovered a concealed GSG Firefly .22 caliber firearm located in the center console of the vehicle.
Smith was taken into custody without incident. He now faces a string of serious charges, including:
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
- Carrying a Concealed Firearm
- Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Sell or Deliver
- Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony
- Possession of a Controlled Substance
Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister issued a warning following the arrest. “Anyone who chooses to profit by spreading poison in our community is choosing a direct path to Falkenburg Road Jail,” stated Sheriff Chronister. “HCSO remains dedicated in our commitment to remove these threats and ensure our neighborhoods remain safe for every family who calls Hillsborough County home.”
The investigation remains ongoing.
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