In a record-breaking drug bust, Maryland authorities apprehended ten individuals, including a suspected drug kingpin, seizing over $2 million worth of cocaine. This operation marks the largest cocaine seizure in Anne Arundel County Police history.

Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown announced the successful conclusion of a long-term investigation targeting drug trafficking operations in and around Severn and Glen Burnie. The suspects face a multitude of charges, including conspiracy to distribute narcotics, possession with intent to distribute, and firearms offenses.

The operation, a collaborative effort between the Anne Arundel County Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and the Attorney General’s Organized Crime Unit, yielded a substantial haul. In addition to approximately 18 kilograms of cocaine, authorities confiscated nearly two dozen firearms and an assortment of other illicit substances, including heroin, fentanyl, methamphetamine, and MDMA.

The investigation unfolded with meticulous surveillance of several identified drug traffickers. Investigators observed numerous hand-to-hand drug transactions and employed wiretaps to intercept communications related to large-scale drug distribution.

Search warrants executed at multiple residences resulted in the seizure of cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, and firearms. The trail led to the alleged supplier, Clayton Mooring, 42, of Glen Burnie, identified as a major cocaine distributor in the county.

Further investigation revealed that Mooring was allegedly importing cocaine from Houston, Texas, concealed within vehicles transported on car carriers. On April 7th, police intercepted a vehicle en route from Texas to Mooring’s business, uncovering approximately 17 grams of cocaine sewn into the seat cushions.

A subsequent search of Mooring’s business yielded an additional 1.5 kilograms of cocaine, bringing the total estimated value to $2 million. Twenty-one firearms were also seized, including two stolen handguns and a “ghost gun.”

Mooring faces multiple charges, including conspiracy to import cocaine, possession of a large amount of cocaine, and conspiracy to engage in financial transactions involving drug proceeds. Several other individuals were also indicted on various charges related to the drug trafficking operation.