PHOENIX, Ariz. — A months-long, multi-agency drug enforcement effort known as Operation Double Down has successfully dismantled a transnational criminal organization involved in the trafficking of fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, and other illegal substances across Arizona and into the broader United States.
Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes announced the results of the seven-month investigation on Friday, highlighting the operation’s role in disrupting a major drug pipeline and removing dangerous narcotics and firearms from Arizona communities.
“Operation Double Down is a powerful example of what can be accomplished when law enforcement agencies at every level work together to combat the deadly flow of fentanyl and other illicit drugs into our communities,” said Attorney General Mayes. “I want to thank the dedicated agents, prosecutors, and all our law enforcement partners for their relentless efforts. My office remains committed to aggressively pursuing and prosecuting drug traffickers who endanger Arizonans.”
Operation Double Down: The Impact
Running from April 2024 to November 2024, Operation Double Down targeted individuals and groups tied to an expansive drug trafficking network operating between Mexico and the United States.
The operation resulted in:
- 1,700,000 suspected fentanyl pills
- Over 26 kilograms of fentanyl powder
- Just over 24 kilograms of cocaine
- 370.2 pounds of methamphetamine
- 13 pounds of heroin
- Nearly $210,000 in U.S. currency
- 14 vehicles
- 28 firearms
The Arizona Attorney General’s Office secured 25 arrest warrants as part of the operation, and the investigation remains active as officials continue to process indictments and pursue further leads.
A United Front Against Drug Trafficking
Operation Double Down was the result of coordinated efforts between federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, including the Phoenix Police Department, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and the Arizona High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA).
“The outcome of this operation is impressive and a testament to the partnerships between local and federal police agencies and prosecutors in this community. We are stronger when we work together, and our community is safer as a result,” said Phoenix Police Department Interim Chief Michael Sullivan.
DEA Phoenix Special Agent in Charge Cheri Oz echoed the sentiment:
“DEA stands alongside our partners as a united front, and we are not stopping. The amount of deadly narcotics and firearms seized in this investigation saved lives. We are law enforcement strong, working together like never before.”
Dawn Mertz, Director of Arizona HIDTA, praised the strategic coordination behind the operation:
“The goal of our narcotics task forces is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle drug trafficking organizations using intelligence-driven investigations. The results of Operation Double Down highlight the success that partnerships between local and federal agencies bring.”
A Win in the Fight Against Fentanyl and Organized Crime
Operation Double Down not only halted the flow of millions of dollars in illegal drugs but also disrupted an organization that used money laundering tactics to avoid detection. The fentanyl seizure alone represents a significant win in Arizona’s ongoing fight against the opioid epidemic.
Attorney General Mayes emphasized that the battle against drug trafficking is far from over, but the results of Operation Double Down show the power of collaborative law enforcement in protecting Arizona communities.
The Attorney General’s Office extended its gratitude to all agencies involved and reaffirmed its commitment to continue pursuing those who pose a threat to public safety.
