The Nation - News from July 3, 1989

An unprecedented statewide crackdown by 1,000 Florida officers ended with nearly 2,200 people arrested on charges of using or dealing crack cocaine. Operation Rock Pile seized more than 3,000 “rocks” of the purified cocaine. Many suspects were arrested by officers posing as dealers. Others were captured in raids and dramatic foot chases. Many of the suspects were charged with cocaine possession or sale, and then used bail bondsmen to post $5,000 to $10,000 bail. Three undercover patrolmen suffered minor injuries in Broward County after their car was rammed by a vehicle driven by a suspect. In addition to crack, authorities found more than 10 pounds of cocaine and three pounds of other drugs, including heroin and steroids. More than $44,300 was confiscated and about 300 cars, a boat and nearly 50 firearms were seized, a Broward sheriff’s spokesman said.