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Hillsborough County Dismantles Latin Kings Drug Trafficking Operation

Law enforcement officers conducting a drug trafficking operation in Hillsborough County

News Summary

The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office has concluded a five-month investigation, ‘Operation No Good Secrets,’ targeting drug trafficking by the Latin Kings gang. Thirteen individuals were arrested, and a significant quantity of narcotics and firearms was seized, including methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl. This operation highlights the ongoing efforts to combat organized crime in the region and ensure community safety.

Tampa, Florida – The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) has concluded a comprehensive five-month investigation, named “Operation No Good Secrets,” which dismantled a significant drug trafficking operation managed by the Latin Kings gang. The operation, which aimed at reducing organized crime and drug activity across Hillsborough County, resulted in the arrest of 13 individuals linked to the gang.

The investigation began in late 2024 and saw collaboration between HCSO and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the latter having tracked some suspects since July of the same year. Authorities noted that the operation conducted was not only a crackdown on drug trafficking but also addressed organized criminal activity that was adversely affecting local communities and beyond.

On April 16, 2025, law enforcement executed four court-authorized search warrants in various locations including Brandon, Tampa, and Pasco County, as well as at “Secrets Gentlemen’s Club” in Town ‘n’ Country, a key location for illicit narcotics transactions. The successful execution of these warrants culminated in the arrest of individuals involved in the Latin Kings gang and led to the confiscation of dangerous drugs and firearms.

Details of Arrests and Drug Seizures

Among those arrested were prominent gang associates including:

  • Ian Dunn, 30, a verified gang associate and ten-time convicted felon. He faces charges including RICO violations, trafficking in cocaine (between 200-400 grams), and conspiracy to traffic cocaine.
  • Julian Finlay, 39, who is charged with trafficking cocaine, amphetamines, fentanyl, along with multiple RICO-related offenses.
  • Jovani Latalladi, 43, a documented member of the gang with five prior felony convictions, facing various charges such as possession of a firearm by a felon and multiple trafficking charges for cocaine.

The operation resulted in a substantial collection of illegal substances and related items, including:

  • 1.4 kilograms of methamphetamine
  • 1.1 kilograms of cocaine
  • 262 grams of fentanyl (in both powder and pill form)
  • 682 Xanax pills
  • 8.2 ounces of psilocybin mushrooms
  • Hydrocodone pills
  • Marijuana
  • Five firearms, featuring a sawed-off shotgun and a gun with an obliterated serial number
  • $14,608 in cash
  • A Latin Kings gang manifesto
  • A 2021 BMW X4 Competition Series SUV

Impact and Future Actions

The Hillsborough County Sheriff highlighted the operation as a significant disruption of a well-organized network that displayed “street-level efficiency and cartel-level supply.” The HCSO remains committed to tackling gang activities, promising vigilance against those who believe they can operate unchallenged in the area. The investigation is still ongoing, with the possibility of additional arrests and charges under RICO and conspiracy related to RICO.

Ongoing Concerns

The Latin Kings gang has been noted for its extensive criminal enterprise, including drug trafficking, violence, and significant threats to community safety. The comprehensive effort by HCSO and ATF illustrates a proactive approach to dismantling such organizations that constantly evolve and pose risks to public safety. Law enforcement agencies continue to monitor gang activities closely, demonstrating their resolve to ensure community safety and wellbeing.

The concerted efforts to crack down on drug trafficking and organized crime highlight the pressing need for community vigilance and collaboration between law enforcement agencies to tackle these persistent challenges effectively.

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Additional Resources

Hillsborough County Dismantles Latin Kings Drug Trafficking Operation

STAFF HERE TAMPA WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE TAMPA WRITER

The TAMPA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERETampa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Tampa, Hillsborough County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Gasparilla Pirate Festival, Florida State Fair, and Tampa Riverfest. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce and United Way Suncoast, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and technology that power the local economy such as BayCare Health System, Grow Financial Federal Credit Union, and KnowBe4. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERESTPetersburg.com, and HERETallahassee.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.

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