JOHNSON COUNTY, Ind. — A dozen people across several counties in central Indiana were arrested Wednesday as part of a massive multi-county drug sweep.
The monthslong investigations led to the arrests of people accused of being involved in drug trafficking organizations.
"We conducted approximately 15 search warrants and 12 federal arrest warrants," said Special Agent Daniel Schmidt with the DEA.
The raids spanned across four counties including Johnson, Hamilton and Marion counties.
Agents seized methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin and marijuana.
"It's terrible and it's just destroying this city and the vast majority of the violence that you see here in the city is drug-related," said Schmidt.
Schmidt said Marion County has been designated as a high-intensity drug trafficking area.
"They know what they're putting out there. They know people are overdosing and dying and they continue to do it. So anybody who thinks that's accidental they're truly just heartless. They're just poising the community and it's all for the buck and they just don't care," said Schmidt.
Agents also made arrests in Johnson County early Wednesday morning.
The Johnson County Sheriff's Office SWAT Team assisted the DEA in serving federal court orders at a home in the 1500 block of Churchill Street in Franklin.
"Today marks a significant win, not only for the dedicated officers involved but also for the people of Johnson County and the state of Indiana," said Johnson County Sheriff Duane Burgess.
Arrests were also made in the Indianapolis area.
IMPD tells 13News they expect to share further details about the arrests made at a future date.
In a statement, an IMPD spokesperson wrote, "The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) in collaboration with state, federal and regional SWAT teams are actively engaged in serving federal search and federal arrest warrants referencing an ongoing drug trafficking organization operating across Indianapolis, and Westfield."
Schmidt recalled one case that sheds a dark light on the impact of drugs.
"We've literally had someone had an overdosed death and someone later that day picked up the phone from the deceased individual and was calling the same dealer to get the same product that just killed their associate. So that's how sick not only these people are but the dealers who know they're causing this havoc. So it's a vicious cycle," said Schmidt.
Schmidt encourages others to talk to their loved ones about the dangers of drugs.
"It's literally killing people and it's absolutely absurd if you consider a jetliner filled with people dying every day is just ridiculous. I think if they can say we've had enough and absolutely, pick up the phone, call the police. Talk to their kids. Talk to their family members and just support the effort," said Schmidt.
Schmidt said the DEA has confirmed organized groups from other countries that come to central Indiana have direct links to the cartel.
Full statement from Johnson County Sheriff Duane Burgess
"Johnson County law enforcement works tirelessly to ensure the safety and security of the people in our community. Whenever the opportunity arises, we take proactive measures to strike against those who threaten the well-being of our residents. We are proud and grateful to work alongside our federal partners, whose support and collaboration are invaluable in achieving these victories. Today marks a significant win, not only for the dedicated officers involved but also for the people of Johnson County and the state of Indiana. Together, we stand strong in our commitment to justice and public safety."