BIA OJS K-9 Unit Seizes More Than $621,000 in Fentanyl During Arizona Traffic Stop

Press Release

Fort McDowell, Arizona — Thursday night, a Bureau of Indian Affairs Office of Justice Services Drug Enforcement K-9 unit seized approximately 4 kilograms (9.4 pounds) of fentanyl powder during a traffic stop on the Fort McDowell reservation in Arizona. The illegal narcotics have an estimated street value exceeding $621,000. 

“We’re seeing the results of President Trump’s renewed focus on drug enforcement coordination to strengthen law enforcement’s ability to take action, protect families in tribal communities, and crack down on violent crime and drug activity,” said Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs Billy Kirkland. “I thank the Fort McDowell Tribal Police for their coordination on this operation, reflecting the strong partnerships we rely on every day across Indian Country. Interagency cooperation is essential to strengthening public safety.” 

Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum signed a Secretary’s Order last month to strengthen criminal investigations, increase deployments of mobile enforcement teams and enhance opioid enforcement efforts in Indian Country.

“We are incredibly proud of the swift, decisive actions taken by our BIA OJS Drug Enforcement K-9 teams,” said Indian Affairs Principal Director for Justice Services and Law Enforcement Charles Addington. “Our efforts to increase our drug enforcement operations in Indian Country are delivering results. This case is an example of how enhanced enforcement efforts with our local partners are helping to dismantle illegal drug organizations and prevent dangerous substances like fentanyl from reaching our communities.”

Federal charges are being pursued through the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Phoenix.

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