Authorities in Missouri use every method legally available to them, including special investigative techniques, to track down alleged drug dealers. For example, last Friday afternoon, a multi-agency law enforcement operation exercised a search warrant for a residence in Columbia, Missouri, that authorities obtained by allowing delivery of a package after a K-9 unit reportedly detected drugs within. 

Law enforcement confiscated the package from a local delivery service and arranged for controlled delivery to its intended destination. The residents’ acceptance of the package provided the needed justification to obtain the search warrant. During the search, authorities reportedly recovered the five pounds of methamphetamine contained in the package. The alleged discovery of both drugs and weapons in the home prompted the arrest of the two individuals there on charges of drug trafficking and unlawful firearm possession. 

The two arrested include a 36-year-old man and a 34-year-old woman. Each has a record of at least one known prior felony conviction, making it illegal for either to own a firearm. Authorities allegedly discovered and confiscated 12 guns during their search of the home, including three reportedly stolen arms. 

Law enforcement agencies involved in the operation reportedly include the Columbia Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the East Central Drug Task Force, the Missouri State Highway Patrol and the Vehicle, Narcotic and Organized Crime Unit. 

As authorities crack down on alleged drug trafficking, multi-agency operations that use special investigative techniques might become more common. For that reason, it may be a good idea for those charged as a result to seek the services of an attorney.