Juveniles and adults arrested in drug bust in Dodge City

Dodge City, Kan.–The Dodge City Police Department’s Special Operations Division successfully executed a search warrant in the 900 block of Otero on Tuesday, leading to the discovery of a significant marijuana distribution operation and the seizure of a large quantity of illegal drugs and firearms.

The search warrant was executed following an extensive investigation sparked by a tip received via Tip411. The anonymous report alerted authorities to individuals involved in the sale of large quantities of THC vape cartridges. Further investigation revealed a juvenile male was not only advertising and distributing THC products but also attempting to sell firearms on a social media platform.

Arrrested were 39-year-old Sara Mayres and 38-year-old Julian Perez Tapia, both residents of the house. They were charged with multiple counts of Aggravated Child Endangerment, Endangerment of a Child, and Contributing to a Child’s Misconduct. They were booked into the Ford County Jail and are being held on $100,000 bond. Two juvenile males were arrested and sent to a juvenile detention facility. They face charges including Conspiracy to Distribute Marijuana, Criminal Possession of a Firearm, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Using a Telecommunication Facility to Arrange a Felony Drug Violation, and No Drug Tax Stamp.

Detectives recovered over 400 THC vape cartridges, multiple ounces of THC concentrate, raw marijuana, over four pounds of marijuana edibles, a small amount of cocaine, over $1000.00 in cash, and ten firearms, including an AK47 pistol and an SKS rifle. The total estimated weight of the THC products seized exceeded 4100 grams. The THC vape cartridges alone have a street value of approximately $14,000.00.

The investigation remains active, possibly leading to additional arrests and cases being filed with the Ford County Attorney’s Office.

Please remember that all suspects are to be considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

THC Vapes: A Growing Problem in High Schools

This operation also brings attention to the growing epidemic of THC vape use among high school students in Dodge City and across the nation. In recent years, the use of THC vapes has become a significant problem within our schools, with many students turning to these easily concealable devices as a means to consume marijuana. The prevalence of THC vapes among high school students poses serious health risks, including potential addiction, respiratory issues, and exposure to unregulated substances, as many of these cartridges are sold on the black market without proper testing or safety standards.

The Dodge City Police Department is urging parents and guardians to talk to their children about the dangers of THC vapes and to be vigilant about any suspicious behavior.