Crime & Safety

Cocaine Trafficking Business Near Middleton High School Shut Down

Authorities arrest a father-and-son pair and seize about 10 ounces of cocaine worth $10,000; an arrest warrant is issued for a third man still at large.

Deputies have shut down an alleged father-and-son cocaine trafficking outfit that was operating at an auto body shop in front of Middleton High School, the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office reported Thursday.

Joseph Quintana Sr., 54, and Joseph Quintana Jr., 24, both of Tampa, were arrested Wednesday night following a five-month investigation by members of the Major Violators Unit, Tactical Intelligence Unit and Tampa Police Narcotics.

Officials said the Quintanas were distributing cocaine from the business, located at 2502 E. Wilder Ave., which is directly in front of Middleton High. About 10 ounces of cocaine, with a street value of $10,000, was seized during the investigation, officials said.

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A warrant has been issued for a third man, Josue Cesar Miguel Torena, 24, who deputies said is an associate of the Quintanas. Torena, charged with trafficking in cocaine, is still at large.

Quintana Sr. is charged with trafficking in cocaine, conspiracy to traffic in cocaine and delivery of cocaine. He faces an additional felony charge of delivery of cocaine within 1,000 feet of a school, sheriff's office spokeswoman Debbie Carter said.

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Quintana Jr. is charged with trafficking in cocaine, conspiracy to traffic in cocaine, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of marijuana.


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