Gainesville Man Arrested in Major Drug Bust Near Santa Fe College
Tavion Parker was arrested following an investigation
GAINESVILLE MAN ARRESTED IN MAJOR DRUG BUST NEAR SANTA FE COLLEGE
GAINESVILLE, FL — A months-long narcotics investigation culminated in the arrest of 22-year-old Tavion Parker, who was found with over three pounds of marijuana during a traffic stop Friday, according to the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office.
The arrest, which occurred on January 2nd, marks the end of an extensive investigation by the sheriff’s FOCUS Unit that had been monitoring suspected drug activity near Northwest 31st Avenue and Santa Fe College for several months.
The Investigation
Deputies had identified Parker as a suspect in ongoing narcotics sales in the area, which is located within 1,000 feet of the college campus — a detail that could enhance the severity of charges due to Florida’s drug-free zone laws.
According to booking records, Parker faces multiple charges including:
Marijuana sale (Schedule I substance)
Drug equipment possession and/or use
Marijuana sale within 1,000 feet of a college
Previous Criminal History
Sheriff’s officials confirmed that Parker is a convicted felon with previous drug-related offenses. The repeat offender status could result in enhanced sentencing if convicted on the current charges.
Ongoing Drug Enforcement Efforts
The arrest highlights the continued efforts of the Gainesville-Alachua County Drug Task Force (GACDTF), a collaborative unit comprising deputies from the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office, Gainesville Police Department, University of Florida Police Department, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
The task force investigates drug trafficking at street-level, mid-level, and upper-level operations throughout Alachua County, with special attention to areas near educational institutions.
Community Impact
Drug activity near college campuses remains a priority for local law enforcement. The proximity to Santa Fe College means the case falls under stricter sentencing guidelines designed to protect educational environments from drug trafficking.
The Sheriff’s Office encourages residents to report suspected drug activity by calling their tip line at (352) 374-1849.
Legal Proceedings
Parker remains in custody as the State Attorney’s Office reviews the case for potential additional charges. The investigation remains active, and authorities have not ruled out the possibility of additional arrests as the inquiry continues.
This arrest represents part of a broader crackdown on drug trafficking in Alachua County, with multiple significant busts occurring in recent months, including federal cases involving methamphetamine trafficking operations that extended beyond Florida’s borders.
This story is developing. Check back with 352NEWS.COM for updates as more information becomes available.