Suspected Heroin Dealer Busted In Sarasota Co.

MANATEE COUNTY, FL -- A Bradenton man was arrested Friday for suspected armed heroin trafficking as part of the Bradenton Police Department and Manatee County Sheriff’s crackdown on narcotics crimes.

Javaris McCants, 22, was arrested at 2 p.m. on the 3000 block of U.S. 301 in Sarasota after investigators from the department's Narcotics Unit and the Special Investigation Division reportedly observed a drug transaction in Manatee County, officials said.

McCants was identified by law enforcement as a local heroin dealer who was selling drugs while out on bond from previous narcotics-related charges, deputies said.

A subsequent search of McCants' vehicle turned up a "trafficking amount" of heroin, cocaine, a 9mm handgun and "drug-related cash," deputies said.

The suspect was charged with alleged armed trafficking in heroin, possession of cocaine and a controlled substance and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. McCants also had several outstanding felony warrants, according to deputies.

Investigators said the heroin will be further tested to determine if it is mixed with Fentanyl or other synthetic cutting agents -- a dangerous and sometimes deadly combination.

Anyone with information about this incident or another crime is asked to call the Manatee County Sheriff's Office at (941) 747-3011 or Crime Stoppers at (866) 634-TIPS (8477).

• Also see: Deputies Seeking Suspect Who Allegedly Pointed Gun At Woman At Gas Station

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