2024 WCSO Annual Report - Report - Page 12
10 | WCSOOregon.org
WESTSIDE INTERAGENCY NARCOTICS TEAM: COMBATING
DRUG TRAFFICKING IN 2024
For over 30 years, the Westside Interagency Narcotics (WIN) Team has
been on the front lines of the fight against drug trafficking in Washington
County. Comprised of personnel from the Beaverton and Hillsboro Police
Departments, Washington County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO), Oregon National
Guard Counter-Drug Program, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA),
and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), this multi-agency task force
continues to make a significant impact in disrupting the flow of dangerous
drugs into our communities.
In 2024, WIN led several high-profile investigations, seizing massive
quantities of illegal narcotics and holding drug traffickers accountable.
Their work has not only removed harmful substances from the streets but
also reinforced public safety efforts across the region.
WCSO HELPS SEIZE 1.4 METRIC TONS OF LIQUID HEROIN
On January 25, 2024, WIN assisted HSI in the seizure of 1.4 metric tons (370
gallons) of liquid heroin—one of the largest known heroin busts in the
United States. Investigators intercepted the drugs inside eight 55-gallon
barrels hidden in a U-Haul truck. This monumental case, coordinated with
the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the FBI, and the Washington County Sheriff’s
Office Tactical Negotiations Team (TNT), led to multiple federal charges
against suspected traffickers.
The success of this operation highlights the power of collaboration
between federal, state, and local law enforcement. By dismantling largescale drug operations, WIN continues to send a strong message: drug
traffickers will face justice.
K9 MANDO’S NOSE FOR JUSTICE
While technology and intelligence gathering play a crucial role in narcotics
enforcement, sometimes the most effective tool is a keen nose and training.
K9 Mando, a dedicated drug-detection dog, played a pivotal role in a recent
bust that resulted in the seizure of nearly 80 pounds of methamphetamine.
Acting on intelligence from Homeland Security Investigations, WIN
intercepted two suspected traffickers from Vancouver, Washington, who
were transporting large quantities of meth into Oregon. Thanks to K9
Mando’s skills, officers were able to locate the concealed drugs and
make key arrests. This case underscores the essential role of highly
trained K9 units in stopping illegal substances before they reach
vulnerable communities.
