MANATEE, Fla. — Authorities confiscated more than 40 dogs, 22 vehicles and dozens of weapons from a Manatee County family accused of running a major drug operation.
Deputies arrested a Manatee County man, his wife and sister after an investigation spanning more than eight months.
In October of 2015, Manatee County Sheriff’s Office deputies began investigating a drug organization that they suspected was led by 41-year-old Robert “Tito” Reyes.
Last month, deputies say they confiscated around $711,000 worth of drugs including heroin, cocaine, Fentanyl, marijuana, LSD, methadone and other narcotics.
Deputies also seized $439,000 in cash, 22 vehicles, 33 weapons and 42 dogs. Many of the animals were malnourished and mistreated. They are being cared for at Manatee County Animal Services.
Reyes faces numerous counts of trafficking in narcotics and possession with intent to sell narcotics.
This week, deputies also arrested his wife, 37-year-old Elizabeth Reyes. She’s been charged with five counts of trafficking in narcotics and ten counts of possession with intent to sell narcotics. Reyes’ sister, 43-year-old Olga Reyes was also arrested and charged with obtaining a controlled substance by fraud.
The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office worked with FDLE, FBI and Manatee County Animal Services on this investigation.
Officials say the case is ongoing, and there may be more arrests coming.
