HERNANDO COUNTY, Fla. – In the ongoing battle against illegal narcotics, the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office recently achieved a significant victory. After a months-long undercover operation, detectives executed a search warrant that led to the seizure of a large quantity of drugs, firearms, and the arrest of two individuals.
On August 15th, the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) Vice and Narcotics Unit concluded a months-long undercover investigation with a search warrant at a Brooksville residence.
Detectives had made multiple controlled purchases of methamphetamine from the home during their investigation.
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The search uncovered a significant amount of illegal drugs, including fentanyl, a trafficking amount of methamphetamine, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia. Additionally, two firearms and over 200 rounds of ammunition were discovered.
Two individuals were arrested and charged:
- Hollie Eikenberry faces charges of Armed Trafficking in Methamphetamine, Possession of Fentanyl, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Her bond is set at $57,000.
- James Eric Batten, a convicted felon, faces a more extensive list of charges, including Armed Trafficking in Methamphetamine, Possession of Fentanyl, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of a Structure for the Sale of Narcotics, Sale of Methamphetamine (2 counts), Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition by a Convicted Felon, and Unlawful Use of a Two-Way Communication Device. His bond is set at $219,000.
The HCSO remains committed to fighting the drug trade in the community and Sheriff Al Nienhuis stated that the investigation is ongoing, with the possibility of further arrests and charges.
Anyone with information about this case or any other crime is encouraged to contact Hernando County Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-866-990-TIPS or online at http://www.hernandocountycrimestoppers.com. Tipsters may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $5,000.
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