In a coordinated effort spanning five months, the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office Special Investigations Division (SID) Gang Unit successfully executed an undercover narcotics operation, culminating in the arrest of an individual peddling dangerous narcotics in our community.
HCSO detectives working within the covert operation conducted multiple transactions, procuring more than 10 grams of cocaine from Kenneth Young, 38, a previously convicted felon and former member of the expired Hot Boys gang.
On Friday, December 29, 2023, with the assistance of the HCSO Major Violator's Unit and District V Patrol deputies, Gang Unit detectives arranged an operation to take Kenneth Young into custody.
Young arrived at the Circle K Gas Station located at 410 S. 50th St, Tampa, FL, to deliver two ounces of cocaine. As Young exited his black Mercedes Benz and entered the gas station, detectives moved in, and Young attempted to flee on foot. He was arrested without further incident.
"The successful culmination of this months-long operation showcases the relentless dedication of our deputies to curtail drug-related activities and dismantle gang operations within our community," Sheriff Chad Chronister stated. "This suspect started off the New Year resolute on continuing his life of crime; thankfully, our detectives were ahead of it. We remain committed to keeping our neighborhoods safe and ensuring our residents aren't subject to the dangers of drug-related crimes."
Subsequent searches of Young's vehicle resulted in the discovery of $3,389 US Currency, 27.0 grams of Oxycodone Hydrochloride 10mg, 58.5 grams of powder cocaine, and 7.6 grams of an unknown brown powder substance.
Kenneth Young’s charges include:
- Delivery and Possession of Cocaine
- Delivery and Possession of Cocaine
- Trafficking in Cocaine (28 to 200 grams)
- Trafficking in Oxycodone (25 to 100 grams)
- VOP Robbery with a Firearm
Young's criminal history includes serving 17 years in Federal State Prison for charges related to Robbery with a Gun or Deadly Weapon and Grand Theft. Despite being released on parole in July 2021, his felony probation expired on 06/20/2031.
Any additional updates will come from the Public Affairs Office.