26/07/2026
Massive Drug Trafficking Crackdown in Central Florida: 49 Arrested, Church Used as Cover
In a massive multi-agency operation dubbed "Operation Icebreaker 2," law enforcement officials have arrested 49 individuals in connection with a major drug trafficking network across Central Florida,. Over the past several months, authorities executed a series of raids and door-busting operations throughout Volusia and Flagler counties.
One of the most shocking discoveries during the sweep occurred in Holly Hill, where Volusia County deputies blasted their way into a local church building. Investigators revealed that the tax-exempt house of worship was being utilized as a secure operational headquarters by local criminals,.
Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood and the Attorney General’s office announced the success of the sweep, identifying the main defendants as Veter Maurice Shavers Jr., Richard Gene Hawker III, and Antonio Bejan Lee,. All three are currently being held in the Volusia County Jail, each facing at least 10 drug-related charges.
The extensive investigation began over a year ago when Daytona Beach police started looking into a surge of violent crime, alongside three fatal drug overdoses in New Smyrna Beach. During the raids, law enforcement recovered dangerous narcotics, cash, cell phones, chemicals, and other crucial evidence. Authorities emphasize that the investigation is ongoing, and they expect further arrests and charges as they work to dismantle the remaining network