Tampa Police have arrested more than twenty people during a spring break operation.
As part of the operation, on March 15, 2025, officers assigned to the Street Anti-Crime (SAC) Squad initiated a narcotics investigation following community concerns over drugs being sold in several clubs and bars.
“Ensuring our community is safe during Spring Break and all year round is our number one priority,” said Chief Lee Bercaw. “I want to send a clear message, there is no tolerance for this behavior in Tampa. Our officers are dedicated to ensuring that any illegal activity is disrupted before more lives are put at risk.”
While at a club located on the 1600 block of E 7th Ave, officers made contact with 19-year-old Matthew Shaffer (white male, 04/09/2005) in the restroom, who subsequently sold officers narcotics, believed to be cocaine. The substance tested positive for Fentanyl. Sheffer had 17.98 grams in his possession and was taken into custody, where he was charged with Delivery of a Controlled Substance (Fentanyl) and Trafficking in Fentanyl.
At a bar located on the 1800 block of E 7th Ave, officers made contact with 23-year-old Joseph Azucena (white male, 06/26/2001) who subsequently sold officers narcotics, which tested positive for cocaine. As a result, Azucena was taken into custody and charged with Delivery of Cocaine and One Misdemeanor Count of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
As a result of dedicated efforts from officers, the following arrests and enforcements were made:
- DUI: 6
- Traffic Stops: 210
- Other Arrests: 21
All year round, we urge the community to continue to report suspicious behavior. If you see something, say something, so we can do something.