The Lake Wales Police Department arrested a Lake Wales man on fentanyl trafficking charges following the execution of a search warrant earlier this month.
According to police, detectives with the department’s Crime Suppression Unit served a search warrant on May 7, 2026, at a residence located on Columbia Avenue as part of an ongoing narcotics investigation.
During the search, detectives reportedly recovered more than 100 grams of fentanyl, along with drug paraphernalia and materials commonly associated with the sale and distribution of illegal narcotics.
As a result of the investigation, 45-year-old Sidney James Palmer of Lake Wales was arrested and charged with:
• Trafficking in Fentanyl Over 4 Grams
• Keeping or Maintaining a Structure for Drug Activity
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Police said Palmer’s prior arrest history includes charges for possession of cocaine with intent to sell, possession of drug paraphernalia, burglary of an unarmed structure, and petit theft.
Anyone with information regarding illegal drug activity is encouraged to contact Heartland Crime Stoppers at 1-800-226-TIPS (8477). Tipsters can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.
