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Avenues Recovery Center is a drug and alcohol rehab in Louisiana with fifteen locations across seven states. Our state blog offers the latest on all addiction-related news in Louisiana, keeping you updated on the rise and fall of current events in your area.
In a significant victory against drug trafficking in Livingston Parish, Louisiana, authorities have made what they are calling the largest fentanyl seizure in the area’s history. The operation, which targeted a drug trafficking organization led by Tyrone Broadway, aka “PawPaw,” resulted in the arrest of four individuals and the confiscation of over 100,000 lethal doses of fentanyl.
According to the WAFB 9 news site, the investigation, which culminated on October 29, 2024, marked a turning point in the ongoing battle against illegal narcotics in the region. According to Sheriff Jason Ard, agents seized approximately 36,000 dosage units of pressed fentanyl pills disguised as oxycodone, as well as methamphetamine from Broadway and his alleged associates. These pressed pills, designed to resemble prescription opioids, are notoriously dangerous due to the potency of fentanyl, which is significantly more powerful than heroin or morphine.
Broadway, along with Eugene “Jake” Skinner, Donald “Bo” McCray, and Devonte Skinner, were arrested during the operation, which involved the execution of search warrants at properties connected to the trafficking network. The arrests took place in Tickfaw and Hammond, Louisiana, at homes linked to the organization.
The total haul during the investigation was staggering. Authorities recovered approximately 67,922 pressed fentanyl pills, equivalent to about 9.5 kilograms of fentanyl. Additionally, they found another 21 kilograms of fentanyl and pressed pills discarded in a wooded area. Other substances seized included five pounds of methamphetamine, six dosage units of Adderall, 3 grams of fentanyl powder, 4.5 grams of crack cocaine, and 2.5 grams of marijuana.
The operation also uncovered a number of firearms, including a crack barrel .410 caliber shotgun and two handguns. In addition to the drugs and weapons, several vehicles were seized, including a 2022 GMC Sierra 2500 AT4, which had been reported stolen in Houston, Texas. Other vehicles connected to the trafficking organization, including a Toyota RAV4, Chevrolet Corvette, and Hyundai Elantra, were also pending seizure.
Sheriff Ard expressed pride in the efforts of the Narcotics Division, praising the successful disruption of a major trafficking organization in the parish. “These results speak for themselves,” he said. “We will continue to focus our efforts on targeting and disrupting these drug trafficking organizations.”
This operation, which involved the collaboration of multiple agencies including the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Albany Police Department, and Customs and Border Protection, serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by fentanyl and the authorities' commitment to taking action against those involved in its distribution.
As law enforcement continues to intensify efforts against drug trafficking, the arrest of these individuals and the massive drug bust is a significant step toward ensuring the safety of Livingston Parish and surrounding areas. For residents in the community, it underscores the importance of remaining vigilant and supportive of the ongoing work of local law enforcement.
If you or your loved ones are struggling with a drug addiction, know that recovery is possible. Avenues Recovery has helped thousands of people overcome their addictions and live healthy, sober lives. Your past does not have to define your future. Reach out to us for a free assessment and to begin your recovery journey in a supportive, non-judgmental environment.