Task Force seize $300K worth of drugs

The Santa Cruz County Anti-Crime Team Narcotics Task Force said it seized drugs with the street value of $300,000 and $27,000 in cash Friday night.

On Friday, Task Force arrested 41-year-old Hilario Garcia, ending a month long investigation into a large-scale heroin and methamphetamine distributor operating in Santa Cruz, investigators said.

The Task Force, along with the Santa Cruz County Gang Task Force and Agents with the Homeland Security, served a search two search warrants at two different residences. The first was in the 300 block of Ocean Street.

Upon arrival Garcia attempted to flee in a vehicle, the Task Force said. He was arrested a short distance away.

More than 6.5 ounces of heroin were found inside the home.

Investigators served a second search warrant in 100 block of Felix Street. There investigators said they found more than $27,000 in cash.

Several Blocks from Ocean Street, investigators said they found a vehicle that belonged to Garcia. Inside the vehicle investigators found six pounds of heroin and about 3 pounds of methamphetamine, with the street value of more than $300,000.

Task Force members said this is the largest seizure of heroin since they can recall.

Garcia was booked into the Santa Cruz County Jail.