OPERATION PUTS DENT IN DRUG TRADE

Local law enforcement officers should be commended for the major dent
they put in Jackson County's bustling drug trade last week.

The three-month undercover sting, dubbed Operation Moon Burn, peaked
on Wednesday when authorities rounded up 52 of 116 suspects. More
arrests certainly will follow. Jackson County Sheriff Mike Byrd
described those arrested as "serious drug dealers" and a mixture of
"small fish and big fish."

It would not have been such a success without the ongoing cooperation
of the Jackson County Narcotics Task Force, the sheriff's office and
the police departments of Pascagoula, Moss Point, Ocean Springs and
Gautier.

Operation Moon Burn was also credited for the recent closing of the
K&A Convenience Store on Ladnier Road in Gautier where illegal drugs
were allegedly being sold over the counter.

Authorities said other area convenience stores were engaged in
similar activity and more businesses could be closed soon. Officers
also seized cocaine, methamphetamine, peyote, marijuana, handguns and
cash in the operation.

Citizens are weary of drug activity on their street corners and
inside their stores. Operation Moon Burn is a comforting reminder
that authorities are working diligently to combat this never-ending
problem in our communities.