SUBMITTED NEWS RELEASE
The Washoe County Sheriff’s Office All Threats All Crimes Unit (ATAC) investigated a report of an adult male targeting high school aged juveniles with marijuana sales.
The investigation led ATAC Detectives to the 1000 block of West Commercial Row in downtown Reno. ATAC Detectives set up surveillance and watched as several high school aged juveniles continuously arrived and departed from the residence.
Through the investigation, ATAC Detectives secured a search warrant and made contact with the resident identified as Mike Souza. ATAC Detectives searched the residence and located approximately 55.58 grams of marijuana (almost 2 ounces – approximately street value of $2,000) and several items of drug paraphernalia. Also at the residence were three juveniles (two males and one female) under the age of 17. Due to juveniles being at this residence during active drug use, ATAC Detectives notified Child Protective Services as well as their parents. Illicit drugs and paraphernalia were booked as evidence.
Souza was arrested and transported to the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office Detention Facility, where he was booked without incident. Souza was charged with being in possession marijuana with the intent to sell (felony), possession of marijuana (felony), maintaining a residence to sell, use or give away a controlled substance (felony), unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia (misdemeanor), two counts of contributing to the delinquency of a minor (misdemeanor), two counts of child endangerment (gross misdemeanor) and allowing children around controlled substances activities (felony). Souza’s bail is set at $14,695. This is an ongoing investigation and additional charges may be filed.
The Sheriff’s Office recommends that every parent and/or guardian talk to their children about the dangers of drugs and alcohol. For more information, visit the American Council for Drug Education at www.acde.org
All Threats All Crimes Unit (ATAC)
The All Threats All Crimes Unit (ATAC) is a joint task force between the Nevada Department of Public Safety and the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office. ATAC Detectives are empowered to operate in any County within the State of Nevada. ATAC Detectives investigate and pursue offenders who perpetrate crimes of violence in this state. Emphasis is placed on:
- Investigation of the manufacture, delivery, transportation and sale of illegal drugs, narcotics and weapons
- Investigation of criminal enterprises, organizations and gangs
- Pursue habitual and sex offenders, fugitives, absconders and wanted persons
- Work in conjunction with and support federal taskforces in response to domestic or international terrorism threats
- Provide investigative response and support to Fusion Centers
- Respond to requests for assistance during emergencies
