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Drug on the rise in s.w. IA found in Bluffs man’s home

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March 19th, 2016 by Ric Hanson

A Council Bluffs man faces felony drug charges after narcotics officers found fentanyl – a drug authorities say which use will soon be on the rise in southwest Iowa – at his home. According to the Daily NonPareil, 25-year old Dustin Sullivan was arrested March 8th and faces a felony, Possession of acetyl fentanyl, a scheduled I controlled substance, charge.

The Southwest Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force (SWINE) executed a narcotics search warrant on the 5300 block of Lynch Circle. During a search of the residence, investigators allegedly found 21.7 grams (gross weight as packaged) of suspected acetyl fentanyl along with a digital scale and drug packaging equipment. Sgt. Robert Christensen of the Council Bluffs Police Department’s Vice and Narcotics Units said 21.7 grams of fentanyl has a street value of around $8,000 to $10,000.

Acetyl fentanyl is an opioid analgesic drug that is a slight variant of fentanyl. The Drug Enforcement Agency has estimated acetyl fentanyl is between five to 15 times more potent than heroin. Additionally, it is reported as being 80 times more potent than morphine. Christensen said SWINE has been keeping an eye out for potential fentanyl dealers in southwest Iowa. The sergeant added that, in other areas, it’s common for users to mix fentanyl with heroin. But, so far, Christensen said he’s has not seen much heroin in Council Bluffs.

In addition to the drugs, numerous firearms were located at the residence with an undisclosed amount of cash. Sullivan has not been charged with any gun charges. If convicted, Sullivan, whose preliminary hearing was Friday, faces up to 10 years in prison.