ATF leads multi-agency operation targeting firearms trafficking, violent offenders in Dayton

DAYTON, Ohio - The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), in coordination with federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, today announced the results of an intensive eight-week enforcement initiative targeting firearms trafficking, armed drug distribution, and violent offenders in the Dayton area. As a result of the operation, 47 defendants have been charged in federal court, and 43 individuals are currently in federal custody. Between April 27 and mid-June, investigators seized 176 firearms, multiple machinegun conversion devices, and kilogram quantities of fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine.

"The men and women of the ATF's Columbus Field Division led this operation with a clear mission: disrupt violent offenders and remove illegally trafficked firearms from our communities," said Special Agent in Charge Jorge A. Rosendo. "I am immensely proud of their dedication and of the seamless collaboration with our law enforcement partners. These results reflect our continued commitment to protecting the citizens of Dayton and ensuring these neighborhoods can thrive free from the threat of gun violence."

U.S. Attorney Dominick S. Gerace II emphasized the critical role ATF played throughout the initiative. "ATF's leadership and investigative expertise were central to the success of this effort," he said. "By focusing on the individuals responsible for driving violence in Dayton, federal and local partners were able to make our streets safer. We will continue working together to pursue those who endanger our communities with illegal firearms and narcotics."

"Operation Fly City demonstrates the strength of interagency collaboration," said HSI Detroit Acting Special Agent in Charge Jared Murphey. "Working alongside ATF and our other partners allowed us to disrupt dangerous criminal activity and remove illegal firearms and narcotics from Dayton's streets."

Dayton Police Chief Eric Henderson added, "The success of this operation shows what is possible when local, state, and federal agencies work closely toward shared goals. By partnering with ATF, we have taken significant steps to reduce violent crime and improve safety across Dayton."

Montgomery County Sheriff Rob Streck highlighted the investigative work: "The arrests and seizures announced today reflect extensive efforts to identify and dismantle the criminal networks driving firearms trafficking and drug distribution in our region."

Over the past several weeks, the U.S. Attorney's Office has brought charges through 20 federal indictments and three criminal complaints. As always, indictments and complaints contain only allegations; all defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.

A full list of charged defendants appears on justice.gov .

Fugitives and Public Assistance

ATF is seeking the public's assistance in locating fugitives associated with this operation. Individuals with information on the whereabouts of any defendants at large are encouraged to contact ATF at 1-888-ATF-TIPS or [email protected] . ATF is offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to the arrests of Eucelf Taste Sr. (46) and Eucelf Taste Jr. (22), wanted for distribution of fentanyl, cocaine, and possession of a machinegun.

About the Operation

This enforcement action is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established under Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. ATF works alongside federal, state, and local agencies in the HSTF to identify, investigate, and dismantle violent criminal networks, including firearms traffickers, drug organizations, and transnational groups contributing to violence in U.S. communities. HSTF Cincinnati includes personnel from multiple partnering agencies committed to reducing violent crime across the region.

ATF protects American communities from violent crime driven by the illegal use of firearms, explosives, and acts of arson. Through crime gun intelligence, forensic analysis, and relentless investigation, we identify and arrest violent offenders and gang members, dismantle trafficking networks, and sever the supply chains arming cartels, prohibited persons, and terrorist organizations. We defend the rights of law-abiding citizens by safeguarding lawful commerce and upholding the Constitution of the United States.