Okeechobee Man Arrested for Drug Trafficking After Months-Long Investigation
POMPANO BEACH, Fla. (CBS 12) — A thorough investigation led by local, state, and federal agencies resulted in the arrest of 39-year-old Jarin Derrel Pikes, who is accused of running a drug trafficking operation in Okeechobee County.
The joint effort by the Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office (OCSO), Narcotics Task Force, Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and DEA culminated in Pikes’ arrest on Wednesday. Authorities claim Pikes sold methamphetamine to an undercover officer on three separate occasions during the investigation.
After gathering sufficient evidence, authorities executed a search warrant at Pikes’ mobile home near 3238 NW 5th Street, where they discovered:
Methamphetamine
Fentanyl
Cocaine
MDMA
An illegal firearm
Drug paraphernalia
Pikes was charged with four counts of trafficking methamphetamine, trafficking fentanyl, trafficking MDMA, possession of cocaine, possession of a firearm by a felon, and possession of drug paraphernalia. He has an extensive criminal history, including felony convictions related to animal cruelty, firearms offenses, battery, and narcotics.
Sheriff Noel Stephen emphasized the collaborative effort of law enforcement agencies in combating illegal drug trafficking and ensuring accountability in Okeechobee County. Anyone with information regarding illegal activity is encouraged to contact OCSO or submit anonymous tips via their Narcotics Hotline at 863-763-7787.