Miami Beach Police on Thursday announced "the successful completion" of their effort to combat citywide narcotics sales, Operation Euphoria.
For months, operatives targeted dealers who sold drugs within 1,000 feet of parks, schools and religious institutions “to protect our most vulnerable populations and uphold the quality of life in Miami Beach,” according to a news release from Miami Beach police.
They made 47 arrests and multiple drug seizures, but there are still nine open investigations and seven suspects are on the run, including two who have fled the state.
Among those arrested were convicted felons, habitual offenders and gang members.
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"Removing drug dealers from our streets is vital to maintaining law and order," Mayor Steven Meiner said.
Officials including Meiner, police Chief Wayne Jones and other commissioners spoke at a news conference Thursday.
Operation Euphoria built on the success of another similar operation, Lucid Air, which netted 100 arrests and confiscated drugs, money, and guns over six weeks. That operation targeted Miami Beach’s entertainment district.
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If convicted, those arrested could face up to 30 years in prison.
