Photo: designer491 / iStock / Getty Images
Pasco County, FL - Authorities in Pasco County, Florida, arrested six individuals and seized more than 2.7 pounds of fentanyl during an investigation into a suspected drug trafficking organization.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement, in coordination with the Pasco Sheriff’s Office, launched the investigation in June 2025 after receiving a tip about a person allegedly involved in narcotics distribution.
Undercover operations conducted during the investigation included multiple purchases of illegal drugs.
These operations identified 36-year-old Christopher Templeton as a local distributor allegedly responsible for supplying fentanyl linked to at least two overdose victims, including a two-year-old child.
On September 19th, 2025, law enforcement executed search warrants at several locations connected to the investigation.
Authorities seized approximately 2.7 pounds of fentanyl, half a pound of cocaine, a quarter pound of cannabis, four firearms, and over $1,000 in cash.
Those arrested and their charges include Christopher Templeton, 36, charged with conspiracy to traffic in fentanyl over 28 grams, trafficking in fentanyl over 28 grams, possession of cocaine, possession of drug paraphernalia, unlawful use of a two-way communications device, and maintaining a residence for drug use.
Corey Jones Jr., 24, faces conspiracy to traffic in fentanyl over 28 grams, tampering with evidence, trafficking in cocaine over 28 grams, and armed trafficking in cocaine.
Richard Mansco, 31, is charged with trafficking in fentanyl over 28 grams, conspiracy to traffic in fentanyl over 28 grams, and unlawful use of a two-way communications device.
Justin Hale, 30, faces trafficking in fentanyl over 28 grams. Kelly White, 42, was charged with possession of cocaine, methamphetamine, and fentanyl with intent to sell.
Daquan Woodard, 29, faces conspiracy to traffic in fentanyl over 28 grams and unlawful use of a two-way communications device.
All six individuals were taken into custody without incident and booked into Pasco County Jail.