ORLANDO, Fla. — A months-long Orlando Police Department investigation into illegal narcotics trafficking has led to repeated arrests and the seizure of large quantities of fentanyl and other dangerous drugs, authorities announced, marking a significant disruption of drug activity in West Orlando neighborhoods.
The investigation began in August 2025 after OPD received multiple community complaints alleging drug sales at a residence on the 4800 block of Selbe Court, according to police. Officers conducting surveillance made contact with individuals leaving the home who were found to be in possession of illegal narcotics, giving investigators probable cause to seek a search warrant.
Search Warrant Uncovers Drugs and Firearms
During the execution of the search warrant at 4855 Selbe Court, officers recovered trafficking-level quantities of controlled substances and firearms, including:
- Over 15 grams of amphetamines
- 2.5 grams of oxycodone
- One shotgun
- One 9mm handgun
As officers searched the home, Derrick Gilmore (DOB: 11/27/1986) attempted to flee the scene, police said. Gilmore and a second suspect, Blake Coleman (DOB: 03/29/1985), were taken into custody and charged with multiple felony offenses, including trafficking in cocaine greater than 28 grams with a weapon, possession of controlled substances with intent to sell or deliver, tampering with physical evidence, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Storage Unit Linked to Suspect
Investigators later identified a storage unit allegedly used by Gilmore. A search warrant executed at that location resulted in the seizure of:
- An AR-style pistol
- Over 100 rounds of ammunition
Police said the findings reinforced evidence that Gilmore was operating a sustained drug trafficking operation.
Fentanyl Pills Recovered After Attempted Escape
On November 20, 2025, officers located Gilmore—who had been released on bond—back at the Selbe Court residence. While attempting to evade police, Gilmore was observed driving away and discarding a backpack near Central Avenue and Barlow Street, authorities said.
The backpack was recovered and found to contain:…