Five individuals were arrested by the Austin Police Department during a sting operation for possession of crack cocaine that tested positive for fentanyl. This operation was conducted in response to a recent surge in overdoses in Austin, where there were 79 suspected overdose incidents, nine deaths, and the distribution of 438 doses of Narcan to counteract the overdoses.
The police undercover operation targeted high narcotics trafficking locations, specifically focusing on an active drug market near North Lamar Boulevard and Rutland Drive. One suspect, identified as Kanady Arkangelo Rimijo, was apprehended after selling crack cocaine to an undercover officer at Cash America Pawn. Upon searching the suspect, police found bags of marijuana that also tested positive for fentanyl.
Rimijo was charged with Manufacture Delivery of Controlled Substance Penalty Group 1B, a first-degree felony, and his bond was set at $20,000. Additionally, four other individuals were arrested and charged with various drug-related offenses.
The Austin community is concerned about the presence of fentanyl in marijuana and is awaiting responses from the APD regarding their findings and any potential policy changes related to marijuana enforcement. The story will be updated as more information becomes available.
