DTF: Compliance check leads to arrests

OKALOOSA COUNTY, Fla. (WALA) - Officials with the Okaloosa County Multi-Agency Drug Task Force (DTF) said they attempted at least 84 purchases of controlled synthetic drugs from local convenience stores and specialty stores throughout Okaloosa County since spring break initiated.

Officers said the drugs are commonly sold as "Spice, K-2, Bath Salts, Screen Cleaner, Plant Food, Lady Bug Attractant" and various other products and are purchased by people seeking the effects of marijuana, cocaine and other illicit drugs.

Authorities said only one store was found to be openly selling these substances.

They said after controlled purchases, and FDLE chemistry analysis, a search warrant was obtained for that location: Gina's 99 Cents Store 11 Eglin Pkwy., Ft Walton Beach

The DTF executed a search warrant at that location Friday, March 15. They said they seized packages of suspected controlled substances. They arrested 20-year-old Luis Meza-Cruz for sale of controlled substance within 1,000 feet of a church, and 43-year-old Timothy Peters is charged with sale of a controlled substance with intent to distribute.

Investigators said they believe the dramatic decrease in establishments selling synthetic drugs during this most recent undercover operation indicates the sheriff’s office’s efforts to combat the sale of these dangerous substances in area businesses is having a substantial impact.