Salt Lake City Police arrested five individuals and confiscated a significant number of suspected fentanyl pills during an operation along the Jordan River Trail on Saturday, Feb. 22.
According to a statement from SLCPD, officers initiated the enforcement effort near 500 North Redwood Road during a period of low call volume. Their objective was to crack down on criminal activity in the area.
As officers arrived, several individuals attempted to flee. Police pursued them on foot and apprehended 48-year-old David Lopez, who was allegedly found in possession of suspected fentanyl pills. Authorities noted that Lopez was also wanted in connection to a property crime investigation in West Valley City.
In total, five people were taken into custody, with police stating that all were allegedly found carrying drugs, drug paraphernalia, or had outstanding warrants.
Among those arrested was 33-year-old Javier Omar Balle-Hernandez, who police say was in possession of approximately 1,000 suspected fentanyl pills and several hundred dollars in cash. Balle-Hernandez also allegedly tried to evade arrest and provided officers with false identification.
SLCPD emphasized its commitment to tackling illegal drug activity, particularly in high-crime areas like the Jordan River Trail.
“This operation underscores our dedication to disrupting drug distribution networks and enhancing public safety,” the department stated.
Further details have not been released, and the investigation remains ongoing.
All individuals arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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