Major synthetic drug operation busted in Southeast D.C.; MPD arrests man, finds over 200 pounds of fake marijuana

WASHINGTON — On Tuesday, the Metropolitan Police Department recovered more than 200 pounds of suspected synthetic marijuana and three unregistered firearms in Southeast D.C., marking a significant development in a broader drug investigation.

Members of the First District’s Special Missions Unit were tracking synthetic drug activity in the 1300 block of E Street SE when they saw a man loading a large storage bin into a vehicle. Officers stopped him and discovered a brown, leafy substance that appeared to be synthetic cannabinoids.

Authorities arrested 28-year-old Tyrone Phillips, of Southeast, without incident. After securing a warrant to search a nearby home, officers found approximately 214 pounds of the suspected substance, along with an AK-47-style pistol, two handguns and materials used to manufacture synthetic marijuana.

In addition to charging Phillips with possession with intent to distribute, Phillips faces charges related to possessing an unregistered firearm and using counterfeit license plates.

Officials say they are continuing to gather information and working to determine if others were involved in the operation.

Anyone with details that could assist the case is encouraged to contact the Metropolitan Police Department at (202) 727-9099 or share tips anonymously by texting 50411.