Virginia governor announces substantial progress in fentanyl crackdown through Operation FREE
Richmond, Virginia – Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin last week announced the results of the Operation FREE initiative, which has made substantial progress in curbing fentanyl distribution in the state. Over the past 45 days, Operation FREE has successfully seized more than 550 pounds of illicit fentanyl, showcasing its impact in the fight against drug trafficking and gang activities in the state.
A Monumental Effort Against Fentanyl
Launched under Governor Youngkin’s Executive Order 26, Operation FREE (Fentanyl Awareness, Reduction, Enforcement, and Eradication) represents a comprehensive approach to addressing the fentanyl epidemic. This operation integrates efforts from local, state, and federal agencies across 13 states, forming a robust partnership aimed at eradicating the fentanyl threat. The operation’s primary focus has been on the recognition, reduction, and eradication of fentanyl supply and demand, alongside enforcing Virginia’s laws against its manufacture and distribution.
Since its inception, Operation FREE has resulted in the seizure of over 19,000 pounds of narcotics and led to 1,081 arrests, with 267 firearms also being confiscated. These efforts underscore the initiative’s extensive reach and effectiveness in disrupting drug trafficking networks.
Innovative Strategies and Collaborative Efforts
Governor Youngkin expressed his pride in the initiative’s outcomes, stating, “Our administration has developed a first-of-its-kind multi-faceted and multi-state operation to decrease the number of fentanyl poisonings through law enforcement collaboration at every level and planned seizures. Over 550 pounds of fentanyl off our streets will undoubtedly save the lives of Virginians.”
In May 2023, the governor had signed Executive Order 26, which set the groundwork for this strategic law enforcement response to the fentanyl crisis. This order directed the Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security to develop a comprehensive plan that includes increased enforcement, community training, education, and partnerships aimed at reducing both supply and demand of fentanyl across Virginia.
The First Lady of Virginia, Suzanne S. Youngkin, emphasized the educational aspects of the operation, which aimed to highlight the dangers of fentanyl with the message that it only takes one pill to endanger a life, and one pivotal conversation to save one.
Leading by Example
The operation, led by Virginia Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security Terrance Cole and the Virginia State Police, focused on enhancing intelligence sharing, operational strategies, and community outreach. Secretary Cole noted the importance of interstate collaboration: “The Governor’s operation brought together multiple states with 175 agencies working together to protect our communities and families. It’s a reminder that when we work together, we can make our communities and homeland more secure.”
In closing, Secretary Cole extended his gratitude towards federal partners, including leaders from the CBP, DEA, and FBI, for their crucial roles in the operation’s success.
Operation FREE not only showcases the potential for inter-agency collaboration to yield significant results but also sets a precedent for similar initiatives across the country to follow. With nearly 5,000 pounds of suspected illicit fentanyl seized nationwide, the operation stands as a bulwark against the opioid crisis, aiming to secure a safer future for the residents of Virginia and beyond.
