Drug, prostitution probe in Lealman nets 30 arrests

LEALMAN — Sheriff's deputies have arrested 30 suspects in this unincorporated area of south Pinellas as the result of an investigation that targeted drug sales and prostitution.

Charges included sale and possession of crack cocaine and trafficking in oxycodone, according to sheriff's records.

The investigation began in April after deputies received complaints from area residents about prostitution and drug sales taking place in the 34th Street corridor in Lealman. Undercover detectives bought narcotics in the area and identified 58 suspects.

They arrested 24 of the suspects during a roundup that began at 6 p.m. Friday. Deputies also arrested six others during the roundup who were charged with offenses related to other drug investigations. Other arrests are expected, the Sheriff's Office said.

Lealman is located between St. Petersburg and Pinellas Park and from Interstate 275 to Park Street. It is divided by Kenneth City.