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Deputies target suspected drug offenders in massive Iredell Co. operation

IREDELL COUNTY, N.C. — An operation is underway Monday in Iredell County that is aimed at taking suspected drug dealers off the streets and cracking down on crime.

A Channel 9 crew watched as six suspects were escorted to the county jail in what law enforcement officers have named Operation Spring Sweep.

Sheriff Darren Campbell said many of the suspects are repeat offenders and were caught selling drugs to uncover officers.

Campbell said that his office is looking to arrest around 35 people in total. He said many of the suspects have been known to sell drugs, including heroin and other opioids, cocaine and methamphetamine.

Officials said Troy Dennison was one of the suspects taken into custody Monday. According to police, he faces felony drug charges, including two counts of trafficking in opium or heroin, two counts of possession with intent to sell and deliver Schedule 3 substances, and two counts of sell and deliver Schedule 3 substances.

(Troy Dennison)

The sheriff said the roundup has helped dismantle several different groups that were selling drugs in the county.

“We are not going to tolerate dealing drugs in Iredell County because that breeds ... so many crimes,” Campbell said.

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The Sheriff's Office hasn't said how many drugs deputies have confiscated so far or where the drugs were smuggled in from.

Officials said deputies will be making arrests throughout the day and into the evening.

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