24 arrested in major central Florida drug bust

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — A raid of eight central Florida homes turned up a group believed to be involved in trafficking drugs and a number of other crimes.
 
The raid, part of a nearly two-year investigation called Operation Glass House, turned up semi-automatic rifles, high-powered handguns, drugs and much more, according to investigators.
 
"There have been 24 arrests, 15 search warrants, a seizure of $160,000 in cash, a seizure of 49 guns, long guns with thousands of rounds of ammunition, two bulletproof vests, $250,000 in assets, including five vehicles, jewelry," Orange County Sheriff Jerry Demings said.
 
Agents said they have been watching Steven Sylvester and Wilfredo Vargas – the alleged ringleaders – since June 2013.
 
Agents with the Orange County Sheriff's Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the raids.

 Photos: Arrests, items taken in raid

According to investigators, they believe the group could be connected to several heroin-related deaths.
 
One of those involved is accused of trying to kill an Orange County deputy during an arrest.

"This violent enterprise occurred throughout Orange and Seminole counties," Demings said.
 
Demings said the investigation started when investigators received a call from someone living near Sylvester, who reported seeing something suspicious.
 
"This is a perfect example of see something, say something," Demings said.
 
Investigators also said they believe the group had ties to prostitution and home invasions.
 
"We believe the evidence compiled against them will show an organization that used violence and intimidation in our community," said Jeff Walsh, with the Drug Enforcement Administration.

WFTV