Fort Walton Beach Police Department officers seized more than 129 grams of fentanyl and arrested two suspects following a raid at a local motel just before midnight on February 13.
- Officers responded to 209 Miracle Strip Pkwy after receiving a tip through Emerald Coast Crime Stoppers. Upon entering the motel room with the occupants’ permission, officers observed narcotics and hypodermic needles in plain view.
The Special Investigations Unit was called to obtain a search warrant. While waiting, one suspect allegedly attempted to escape by jumping from the second-story breezeway but was quickly caught.
- A second suspect fled on foot and was detained after a brief struggle that left an officer with minor injuries, according to the FWBPD report.
The search revealed over 129 grams of fentanyl – equivalent to more than 6,000 potentially fatal doses – along with methamphetamine, cocaine, and drug paraphernalia. Naomi Cantrell, 28, and Azzie McClendon, 32, both of Fort Walton Beach, were arrested and charged with providing a false name to law enforcement, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of a controlled substance, and trafficking in fentanyl.
“With the help of Emerald Coast Crime Stoppers and concerned citizens, we were able to remove a deadly amount of fentanyl from our streets,” said Chief Robert Bage.
The department’s efforts include the Post Overdose Support Team (POST), which connects individuals struggling with addiction to treatment and recovery resources.
The police department encourages anyone with information about illegal drug activity to report tips anonymously through Emerald Coast Crime Stoppers at (850) 863-TIPS or online at www.emeraldcoastcrimestoppers.com.
