On Thursday, June 9, as part of an ongoing joint operation with the DEA, SIS detectives assisted with executing a search warrant at the home of Derek White, DOB 10/21/88, of 1560 Wagon Wheel Drive, Sarasota. When deputies attempted to make contact, White, a known felon and target of the investigation, answered the door with a holstered weapon partially concealed in his pocket. When confronted, White retreated into the house and closed the door. The SWAT Unit was then called. As SWAT prepared to clear the residence, White came out and was placed into custody without altercation.
Upon a search of the residence, several items of evidentiary value were located, including multiple firearms, ammunition, and various narcotics. A total of 39 firearms, including several rifles with affixed suppressors and thousands of rounds of ammunition, were removed from White’s bedroom. Also arrested during the execution of the search warrant was Nicole Gooch, DOB 01/17/94, on an outstanding VOP arrest warrant out of Charlotte County, as well as Possession of Alprazolam.
Derek White has been charged with Trafficking in Methamphetamine More than 14 grams, Trafficking in Cocaine More than 28 grams, Trafficking in Fentanyl More than 4 grams, Possession of a Firearm by Convicted Felon, Possession of Ammo by Convicted Felon and Possession of Marijuana.
Gooch remains in custody on $1,500 bond.