In a significant blow to drug trafficking networks in Central Florida, authorities have arrested 49 individuals following a comprehensive investigation known as Operation Ice Breaker II. The operation, which began in fall 2026 and concluded on June 30, 2026 targeted organizations distributing fentanylmethamphetamine and cocaine across VolusiaFlaglerSt. JohnsMarion and Orange counties.
The investigation, led by the Florida department of Law Enforcement in collaboration with local agencies, utilized wiretapssurveillance and controlled drug purchases to gather evidence and identify key members of the trafficking networks. Authorities executed search warrants at multiple locations, seizing drugs, cash, digital scales, telephones, and other incriminating evidence.
Key Figures and Charges
Among the primary defendants charged as leaders of the organization are Vetrick Maurice Shavers Jr.Richard Gene Hocker III and Antonio Bejon Lee. Shavers faces charges including conspiracy to traffic in fentanyl and trafficking in fentanyl with mandatory minimum sentences ranging from seven to twenty years. Hocker is charged with similar offenses, including trafficking in methamphetamine while Lee faces multiple counts of trafficking in fentanyl.
Other defendants face a range of charges, including traffickingconspiracydeliverypossession with intent to sell or deliverfirearm offenses by dangerous felons and unlawful use of two-way communications devices. The investigation also uncovered connections between the drug networks and recent acts of violence, including a shooting linked to guns found at one of the properties.
The Impact on Central Florida Communities
Florida attorney general James Uthmeier emphasized the importance of the operation in disrupting the flow of dangerous drugs into Florida communities. “This joint investigation dismantled a criminal organization that pumped deadly fentanyl and other dangerous drugs into Florida communities,” Uthmeier stated. “Through the tireless work of Florida’s law enforcement, state attorneys, and our statewide prosecutors, we have arrested 49 traffickers and disrupted these networks.”
Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood praised the collaborative effort, noting that the arrests have made Volusia County safer. “This work is never done, but thanks to a relentless approach and a lot of great teamwork, Volusia County is better off today with another set of scumbag drug dealers locked up,” Chitwood said. The investigation involved the Volusia County Sheriff’s OfficeFlagler County Sheriff’s OfficeDaytona Beach Police Department and other agencies.
Daytona Beach Police Chief Jakari Young highlighted the operation’s role in reducing violence and other crimes fueled by drug trafficking. “Dismantling the organization would help reduce the violence and other crimes fueled by drug trafficking,” Young said. The cases will be prosecuted by the Florida Office of Statewide Prosecution in partnership with the State Attorney’s Office for the Seventh Judicial Circuit.
Ongoing Investigation and Future Arrests
Authorities have indicated that the investigation remains active, and additional arrests are expected. The operation serves as a testament to the relentless efforts of law enforcement agencies to combat drug trafficking and its associated crimes. As the legal process unfolds, the impact of Operation Ice Breaker II will continue to be felt across Central Florida, sending a clear message to those involved in illegal drug activities.
