Operation Safe Streets takes dangerous drugs and wanted fugitives off the streets of Kootenai County

IDAHO STATE POLICE NEWS RELEASE - generated by our News Release ListServer
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IDAHO STATE POLICE NEWS RELEASE
District 1 Patrol 615 West Wilbur Ave. Coeur d'Alene, ID 83815
(208) 209-8620

For Immediate Release: 06/29/2021 03:20 p.m.
Please direct questions to the District Office

The Idaho State Police led a multi-agency high-visibility criminal apprehension operation this past week in Kootenai County aimed at taking dangerous fugitives off the streets. During the intensive four-day effort dubbed "Operation Safe Streets", about 50 officers and agents located wanted fugitives, dangerous drugs, and stolen firearms.

"We've seen a concerning increase in criminal activity connected to illegal drug use in our area, and this operation was an opportunity to prevent more from happening," said Captain John Kempf of the Idaho State Police.

"For those who would bring dangerous drugs or other criminal activity into North Idaho, we want to put them on notice that law enforcement is working together across state and city lines, and if you endanger our community, we're coming for you."

Joining ISP in Operation Safe Streets were approximately 50 officers and agents from the Kootenai County Sheriff's Office, Coeur d'Alene Police Department, Post Falls Police Department, Idaho Probation and Parole, and Kootenai County Probation and Parole. Also bringing interstate resources to the operation were agents from the U.S. Border Patrol, U.S. Marshals, FBI, and DEA.

Operation Safe Streets ran from June 23rd through June 26th, and focused largely on criminal activity, including driving under the influence, in Coeur d'Alene and Post Falls.

"Sadly, we found more evidence of what we already knew was happening; that among drug users, fentanyl is becoming even more prevalent," said Captain Kempf. "We've seen several local families impacted by fatal drug overdoses we believe are connected to fentanyl. The amount of drugs including fentanyl that we found during this operation, we find very concerning." Said Captain Kempf.

Captain Kempf says Operation Safe Streets was a success and similar efforts will happen again. Bringing together officers and agents from around the region allows for immediate access to information and valuable additional resources.

"The goal of Operation Safe Streets is to help members of the community enjoy the July Fourth weekend and a safe North Idaho summer." Said Captain Kempf. "We appreciate the officers and members of this community for their support in making that happen."

Results from Operation Safe Streets, June 23 - 26, Kootenai County, Idaho include:

- 9 DUI Arrests;
- 9 Felony Fugitives Apprehended;
- Multiple criminal investigations are underway as a result of Operation Safe Streets including trafficking and possession of heroin,
meth, fentanyl, cocaine, illegal possession of prescription drugs, illegal possession of a firearm, and possession of stolen firearms.

Have a Tip?
Anyone with information on the use or sale of illegal drugs or other criminal activity is urged to contact Idaho State Police at the Idaho Drug Tip Hotline 1-800-524-7277, or contact your nearby Idaho State Police district office or local law enforcement agency.