A major crackdown on methamphetamine distribution in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, has led to the arrest of 55 individuals. The operation, dubbed "Operation Speed Bump," was launched in response to a significant increase in methamphetamine sales in the county over the past year. As of Wednesday, 24 suspects have been apprehended, and warrants have been issued for the arrest of 31 others.
The operation began in January and targeted meth distribution linked to Mexican cartels. Cumberland County District Attorney Sean McCormack told WGAL News that the quality of the drugs seized indicated they were likely produced outside the United States and smuggled into the country.
The abundance of meth in the area has led to a significant drop in prices for the highly addictive drug. "Four or five years ago, when we were purchasing these drugs, it was $800 to $1000 we were spending during those purchases," McCormack said during a press conference. "In recent times, when we're looking for an ounce of this, we're talking about $150 to $200. That's a much lower cost. That tells us that the market is flooded here currently."
McCormack added that this operation marks the first phase of a broader investigation into significant drug activity in the area. Law enforcement officers are continuing to serve warrants across Cumberland and Dauphin counties.