In a substantial drug bust, the Salt Lake City Police Department’s Violent Criminal Apprehension Team (VCAT) recently seized 2,500 fentanyl pills along with other drugs and firearms. The successful operation is a part of the department’s ongoing efforts to combat the flow of illegal substances and weapons in the city. The raids underscored a no-nonsense approach to drug enforcement that’s centered on clipping the wings of those who would see our streets awash in narcotics and violence.
According to SLCPD from Salt Lake City Police Chief Mike Brown, “This is exactly why our Violent Criminal Apprehension Team exists.” While in illegal possession of firearms, he continues to relate their determination “not to allow people a place in Salt Lake City where they can sell or buy drugs without consequence.” The VCAT aimed to remove dangerous elements from the community, was behind conducting proactive patrols, and ultimately made the bust.
The investigation kicked off around 2:15 p.m. on January 9, after detectives observed suspect behavior near 1000 South Main Street. Marco Antonio Lopez, 34, was later identified, based on this activity, as partaking in transactions that bore the hallmarks of illegality. Upon acquiring a search warrant for Lopez’s motel room, detectives uncovered and confiscated not only the fentanyl pills but nearly 50 grams of methamphetamine, over 15 grams of heroin, close to 50 grams of crack cocaine, three firearms, two reported as stolen and $3,100 in cash, as reported by SLCPD…