Operation Byrne Blitz drug sweep nets 172 arrests

Authorities from several law enforcement agencies confiscated several pounds of illegal substances, guns, drugs, vehicles and cash in a one-day statewide drug enforcement campaign.

By TIM HARLOW, Star Tribune

Last update: March 7, 2008 - 11:42 AM

Authorities from several law enforcement agencies confiscated several pounds of illegal substances, guns, drugs, vehicles and cash in a one-day statewide drug enforcement campaign.

As part of Operation Byrne Blitz, drug task forces from throughout the state arrested 172 people and seized 23 pounds of marijuana, 1½ pounds of powder cocaine, 3½ pounds of methamphetamine and 3 pounds of various prescription drugs in a sweep on Wednesday.

They also confiscated 43 guns, 12 vehicles and nearly $40,000 in cash. More than 170 people were arrested and authorities served 57 search warrants, the Minnesota Department of Public Safety said.

Law enforcement also encountered 20 endangered children during the operation and referred them to local authorities

“Operation Byrne Blitz illustrates the value of regional, consolidated drug enforcement efforts,” said Public Safety Commissioner Michael Campion, who is a former narcotics agent. “Drug trafficking operations often cross traditional jurisdictional boundaries, and when agencies work together to devote resources to catching traffickers, that makes Minnesota safer.”

Operation Byrne Blitz is named after the federal Edward Byrne grant, which provides grants to fund drug task forces and enforcement efforts.

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