PINELLAS PARK – On Tuesday, August 12, 2025, the Pinellas Park Police Department SWAT Team, working with the department’s Special Investigations Unit, executed a narcotics search warrant at the Express Inn & Suites, located at 11333 U.S. Highway 19 N.
The warrant was the result of a long-term investigation that identified several individuals selling fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine, and synthetic cannabinoids (“Spice”) from a front-facing hotel room. Detectives determined the suspects were using the hotel as a base for drug distribution.
The Express Inn & Suites houses both short- and long-term residents, including children, in close proximity to the illicit drug activity. Investigators said the location and nature of the crimes posed a serious risk to residents and the surrounding community.
“Bringing narcotics into an environment where children are present is not only reckless, it’s despicable. The Pinellas Park Police Department will not stand by while criminals poison our community and endanger our future generations. Today’s arrest sends a clear message to those who choose to sell narcotics in Pinellas Park,” said Chief Geissenberger.
Arrested:
- Valeri Schwab, Age 28: Three counts of intent to sell/possess a controlled substance within 1,000 feet of a school; one count of operating a drug house.
- Carlos Cruz, Age 49: Five counts of sell/possess a controlled substance within 1,000 feet of a school; one count of felon in possession of a firearm; one count of possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony; two counts of possession of a controlled substance.
- Anthony Roberts, Age 38: One count of operating a drug house; three counts of intent to sell/possess a controlled substance within 1,000 feet of a school.
- Brent Ryan, Age 28: One count – Warrant arrest (Violation of Probation – Fentanyl Possession), One count – Resisting an officer without violence , One count – Possession of a controlled substance, One count – Violation of probation