Largo Alleyway Crack Dealer Busted, Police Say

Largo Police arrested two people on Nov. 1 in connection with drug sales reported in the alleyway behind a home on First Avenue Northeast, according to a post on the Largo Police Facebook page.

The investigation began in August when the department received a tip that someone was selling large quantities of drugs behind a residence there, police report.

From August through late October, Largo Police continued to receive tips about the narcotics sales because of the increased traffic in neighborhood. Based on the tips, the police were able to get a search warrant for the house at 619 # B 1st Ave. NE, police report.

On Nov. 1, police reportedly found crack cocaine and a firearm at the residence.

Areeas Jones, 43, was arrested on the charges of sales and possession of crack cocaine within 1,000 feet of a church (three counts) and possession of crack cocaine within 1,000 feet of a church (four counts). Jones was in Pinellas County Jail awaiting trial on Nov. 2 on total bond of $700,000 according to online Pinellas County Sheriff's records.

Jasmine Helms, 28, was arrested and charged with possession of crack cocaine within 1,000 feet of a church. Helms was in Pinellas County Jail awaiting trial on total bond of $50,000.