'Problem hotel' raided by Pinellas Park SWAT team during drug house investigation
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PINELLAS PARK, Fla. (WFLA) — Pinellas Park police raided a “problem hotel” Tuesday as part of a narcotics investigation, authorities said.

The Pinellas Park Police Department said SWAT team officers executed a narcotics warrant at the Express Inn & Suites on US Highway 19 Tuesday.

According to police, it was part of a “long-term investigation” that uncovered a base of operations for drug sales.

Investigators said the suspects sold drugs like fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine, and synthetic marijuana from a room at the front of the facility.

The suspects were identified as:

Valeri Schwab, 28

  • Three counts – Intent to sell/possess controlled substance within 1,000 ft of
    school
  • One count – Operating a drug house

Carlos Cruz, 49

  • Five counts – Sell/possess controlled substance within 1,000 ft of school
  • One count – Felon in possession of a firearm
  • One count – Possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony
  • Two counts – Possession of a controlled substance

Anthony Roberts, 38

  • One count – Operating a drug house
  • Three counts – Intent to sell/possess controlled substance within 1,000 ft of
    school

Brent Ryan, 38

  • One count – Warrant arrest (Violation of Probation – Fentanyl Possession)
  • One count – Resisting an officer without violence
  • One count – Possession of a controlled substance
  • One count – Violation of probation

The police department said the hotel housed “short and long-term residents, including
children,” who were in close proximity to the drug sales.

“Bringing narcotics into an environment where children are present is not only reckless, it’s despicable,” Chief Adam Geissenberger said. “The Pinellas Park Police Department will not stand by while criminals poison our community and endanger our future generations. Today’s arrest sends a clear message to those who choose to sell narcotics in Pinellas Park.”

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