KSP makes 206 arrests as part of drug operation in Kentucky

FRANKFORT, Ky. ( FOX 56 ) — Thursday, Gov. Andy Beshear and Kentucky State Police announced 206 arrests in connection with a KSP drug operation called “Operation Summer Heat.”

This comes after a three-month-long investigation into suspected drug trafficking rings in Kentucky.

“This statewide initiative is to show a clear message across Kentucky that those who continue to distribute illegal drugs in our communities,” KSP Commissioner Phillip Burnett Jr. said. “The Kentucky State Police and our law enforcement partners, local and federal, will focus our efforts to cease such activities.”

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All 16 KSP posts participated in the operation with Post 9 in Pikeville leading the way, having 37 arrests. This is an ongoing investigation, but KSP said the streets will be a little safer tonight.

“Kentuckians and those target areas can sleep a little better tonight, knowing that these drug dealers have been removed from their communities and will now face prosecution,” Burnett said.

The numbers released in Thursday’s news conference revealed the operation’s success with nearly $685,000 worth of drugs taken off the streets, including fentanyl, heroin, methamphetamine, oxycodone, and other illegal substances.

“This success was a testament to the hard work of our detectives and post-level personnel who are dedicated to keeping Kentuckians safe from the dangers of illicit drugs… all Kentuckians, but especially our children,” Burnett said.

Since his time in office, Beshear has made crime deterrence and public safety a high priority. He’s even made access to substance abuse treatment plans more available.

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A statement released by KSP said the state is actually leading the nation in residential drug and alcohol treatment beds per capita.

None of it would be possible, though, without the help of first responders throughout the commonwealth.

“Because of y’all, my kids and everybody else’s kids are a little bit safer today,” Beshear said.

You can read the full report here. It also includes information on resources for people who are suffering from addiction to find help.

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