GIFFORD — The death investigation of Jermaine Benjamin led investigators to the 4300 block of 35th Avenue, where drugs and guns were confiscated, the Sheriff’s Office announced Wednesday afternoon.
On Tuesday, detectives with the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office, with the assistance of the Multi Agency Criminal Enforcement (M.A.C.E.) Unit, conducted two search warrants in the Gifford area, according to a press release.
Detectives located and seized three loaded handguns and approximately seven grams of a suspected drug known as “Flakka.”
Two .357 magnum revolvers and one .22 caliber semi automatic handgun were recovered and are being evaluated forensically. The suspected Flakka will be sent to the Indian River Crime Lab for testing.
While investigating the death of Jermaine Benjamin, detectives obtained information that provided them with the probable cause necessary for the search warrants, according to authorities.
“We are concerned about these new drugs and their impact on our community,” said Indian River County Sheriff Deryl Loar. “Our M.A.C.E. Unit will continue to investigate and arrest those who sell these dangerous drugs. We believe that the search warrants conducted yesterday will help our detectives further the investigation into Mr. Benjamin’s death.”
Anyone with information or tips on drug related incidents in Indian River County are encouraged to contact Treasure Coast Crime Stoppers at 1-800-273-TIPS (8477). You can remain anonymous and possibly be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000.
