SARASOTA, Fla. – A tip from state probation officers culminated in a high-stakes raid early this week, as Sarasota Police cleared a significant quantity of lethal narcotics and thousands in cash from a local residence.
On Monday, April 6, 2026, detectives with the Strategic Investigations Unit joined forces with patrol officers to execute a search warrant at 3036 31st Way, targeting a man already under the watchful eye of the Florida Department of Corrections.
The search led to the arrest of 35-year-old Demarius R. Jones, a Sarasota local who was currently on probation for several felony offenses spanning Sarasota and Manatee counties.
According to police records, Jones claimed to be the sole resident of the home, which investigators noted sits less than 900 feet from a neighborhood church.
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The inventory of seized items painted a stark picture of the operation. Officers recovered 90.2 grams of fentanyl and 25.9 grams of cocaine.
In addition to the heavy narcotics, the search turned up 10 pills of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, 19 hydromorphone pills, and 39 grams of marijuana.
Beyond the drugs, police seized a round of .223 rifle ammunition and tools typically associated with distribution, including digital scales coated in white powder residue, clear plastic bags, and straws. Officers also confiscated more than $10,000 in currency.
Jones now faces a litany of legal repercussions, including six felony charges and one misdemeanor. The specific counts include trafficking in fentanyl (four grams or more), possession of cocaine with intent to sell within 1,000 feet of a church, and possession of ammunition by a convicted felon. He is also charged with possession of various controlled substances and drug paraphernalia.
While Jones is in custody, the Sarasota Police Department emphasized that this remains an active and ongoing investigation. Authorities are urging anyone with further details to contact the Criminal Investigations Division at 941-263-6070. Those wishing to stay anonymous can provide tips through Crime Stoppers of Sarasota County at 941-366-TIPS.
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