Major Drug and Firearms Bust in Columbus

On Monday, June 17, 2024, a joint operation involving the Columbus Police Department’s Special Operations Unit, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) resulted in the arrest of Clayton Smith, 31, at multiple locations in Columbus.

The operation commenced at a residence on 11th Avenue, where Smith attempted to evade authorities by fleeing into nearby woods. Later, surveillance led agents to another residence on Curry Street, where Smith was apprehended without further incident by the Entry Team.

Search warrants were subsequently executed at the Curry Street address and another residence on Bullet Boulevard. During these searches, law enforcement seized significant quantities of drugs and firearms, including methamphetamine, marijuana, cocaine, and heroin laced with fentanyl. Several firearms, including one reported stolen, were also confiscated along with multiple vehicles, cash, and assorted electronics and tools.

Clayton Smith faces a multitude of charges, including trafficking various drugs, possession of firearms during the commission of a crime, and obstruction of justice.

The successful joint operation underscores the effectiveness of collaboration between local and federal agencies in combating drug trafficking and firearm-related offenses. The Columbus Police Department emphasized its ongoing commitment to ensuring community safety through strategic enforcement actions.