26 arrested in heroin drug sweeps

In the past three weeks, Mid-Missouri lawmen have arrested 26 suspected heroin dealers in one of the largest narcotic operations in recent years.

Officials say the MUSTANG Drug Task Force, Jefferson City Police Department and Cole County Sheriff's Department conducted a multi-agency "drug sweep" to combat the area's increase in heroin distribution.

Many of the arrests stem from grand jury indictments, which were the result of MUSTANG Drug Task Force investigations involving the sale and distribution of heroin.

In addition, officers have conducted numerous searches of residences suspected to be involved in heroin distribution. The searches included consent searches and the execution of four search warrants, which were conducted within the past 96 hours.

In particular, one search warrant was executed at the residence of Matthew White, 27, 1207 Katy Lane, in Cole County. White has been the primary focus of a heroin distribution investigation in which he is suspected to have supplied heroin which resulted in overdoses in Jefferson City.

A search of his residence uncovered an ounce of raw heroin with an estimated street value of $7,500-$10,000, two handguns, suspected drug money and items associated with the packaging and distribution of heroin.

Nineteen suspects have been arrested and charged with the distribution of controlled substances.