Kissimmee police on Thursday announced the arrests of 10 people as part of a crackdown on drug trafficking near schools and daycares.
Dubbed "Operation The Wall," Kissimmee police conducted a two-month investigation Into drug sales in the area of Cypress and Main Streets, just north of downtown Kissimmee. Known to dealers and buyers as “The Wall,” the location is situated behind a commercial retail plaza near schools and daycares, such as Main Street High School and Freedomland Christian Academy.
Working with the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office and KPD's Tactical Police Unit and Patrol Division, investigators conducted undercover surveillance leading to the coordinated arrests of suspects believed to be trafficking in fentanyl and cocaine.
Those arrested face a felony charges of drug sales and delivery within 1,000 feet of protected areas, which carry enhanced penalties, including mandatory minimum prison sentences. Arrested were:
- John Leslie Dyson, 56
- Jenifer Walters, 42
- Jocelyn Vargas, 50
- Oscar Lamont Redding, 50
- John Watkins, 66
- Malachi Thomas, 27
- Nathaniel Hamilton, 60
- Remer Baker III, 44
- Cloko Stoudemire, 65
- Wallace Cohn, 34
In a statement, Police Chief Charles Broadway emphasized the department’s dedication to safeguarding the community.
“We’re focused on keeping our neighborhoods safe and protecting families. Working together with our partner agencies and members of the community strengthens our efforts and benefits everyone in Kissimmee.”
