Positive results of Operation Bulk Up

A two-year investigation detected and shut a large-scale underground lab linked with steroids. The investigation was led under name “Operation Bulk Up”. It was a well-planned activity of the proper authorities in Lebanon (Ohio).
As it was found out, a dealer of steroids sold these drugs to members of the Cardio Strength Center of the YMCA. So, when the Warren County Prosecutor’s Office was said about it, the investigations started. The decision of the Drug Task Force was to send an officer who had to pretend being a member of the YMCA to the steroid dealer. Major John Burke, the leader of the Warren County Drug Task Force, was chosen for this need.
Mike Caroll, the President and CEO of the YMCA, was the only individual at this association who knew about the investigation. He could keep all things he knew about the plans of the Drug Task Force in secret. So, a large-scale organization connected with distribution of steroids was detected.
32 persons were involved in the illegal activity related to selling of steroids. They were charged with corrupt activities, supplying and possession of steroids. The investigation intended to catch only manufacturers and distributors of steroids. Although the investigation didn’t focalize on clients who bought these products, the officers mentioned that professional athletes and bodybuilders belonged to the customers.
The law enforcement seized 600,000 dollars which were claimed to be a profit from selling of steroids, 300, 000 dollars in cash and vehicles and 100 weapons.
Mike Caroll, the President and CEO of the YMCA talked openly to media about the results of the investigation. He was not afraid to notice about his role in this activity to catch the illegal organization. Caroll said that he was very happy to find out about the positive results.
It is important to note that it was quite difficult to detect the criminal organization. The undercover agent had to put efforts to purchase steroids from a distributor. As a result of the investigation, an underground laboratory in Tennessee was detected. It produced steroids in injectable form. The raw was imported from China. The leaders of distribution were Ronald Herbort and Matthew Geraci.
According to the undercover agent, direct interactions between dealers and customers were avoided in this organization. There was a special organized locker system which helped to avoid direct interactions.
However this activity linked with manufacture and selling of steroids was well-organized, the law-enforcement could detect it to shut the laboratory. This investigation is an example that confirms following statement: if the authority gives main priority to such operations, positive results can be achieved.