Authorities confiscate firearms and narcotics, resulting in nearly 40 arrests during Operation Sarasota S.U.R.G.E. III.

SARASOTA, Fla. – In a significant crackdown, nearly 40 individuals have been arrested, and Sarasota police confiscated dozens of firearms, alongside a substantial quantity of illegal drugs, during Operation Sarasota S.U.R.G.E. III—a collaborative initiative with the ATF.

What is Operation Sarasota S.U.R.G.E. III?

Operation Sarasota S.U.R.G.E. III stands for Sarasota Unified Reduction Gun Crime Enforcement.

The initiative commenced in August 2024 with the aim of vigorously addressing violent crime, particularly offenses involving firearms, while working to reduce the prevalence of illegal weapons and drugs in Sarasota.

Over a span of nine months, Chief Rex Troche noted that undercover detectives, aided by confidential informants, executed nearly 100 pre-planned operations.

By the numbers:

Law enforcement recovered 43 firearms, with 15 being stolen and 10 linked to shootings in Sarasota, Tampa, and St. Petersburg—some recovered mere hours after being reported stolen.

In addition, authorities seized 44 pounds of marijuana, 1.72 pounds of cocaine, 6.6 pounds of THC wax, 8.7 ounces of methamphetamine, as well as smaller quantities of fentanyl, heroin, mushrooms, MDMA, and hundreds of illegal prescription pills.

Who was arrested?

Out of the 42 identified suspects, 39 have been arrested, with law enforcement actively seeking the remaining individuals.

Notable arrests include Clyde Lee, who was apprehended after selling 23 pieces of rock cocaine to an undercover detective for $200. Lee has a history of 14 prior felonies.

Another suspect, Daman Dipina, was arrested for selling marijuana near a park; he has 13 prior felonies.

What they’re saying:

“By holding these individuals accountable, we’re enhancing the safety of Sarasota. It’s crucial to understand that firearms often accompany drug activities,” stated Chief Troche.

“Let me emphasize, operations like S.U.R.G.E. are perilous. Our undercover officers confronted armed and dangerous felons with professionalism and precision. If you’re illegally carrying a firearm in Sarasota, especially as a felon, you’ll be identified and prosecuted,” Troche declared.

“Our operations run 24/7. If you think you’re selling to an unsuspecting buyer on the street, you’re likely selling to us and facing arrest,” Troche added. “The collaboration with federal and state attorney’s offices strengthens our enforcement efforts considerably.”