Upstate NY Law Enforcement Seize Massive Haul of Drugs and Guns in 'Operation Clean Sweep'

Collaborative effort led by Broome County District Attorney Paul Battisti has expanded across 32 counties in New York.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 9:51pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a small pile of white powder and several small pills, creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic through the use of harsh, direct flash lighting against a pitch-black background.The massive drug seizure through 'Operation Clean Sweep' represents a major blow to criminal networks trafficking narcotics across Upstate New York.Binghamton Today

In a major crackdown on criminal activity across Upstate New York, law enforcement agencies have seized hundreds of grams of fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, and other illicit drugs, as well as over 20 illegal firearms, through an initiative called 'Operation Clean Sweep' that started in Broome County and has now expanded to 32 counties.

Why it matters

The large-scale seizure of dangerous drugs and illegal weapons represents a significant disruption to criminal drug trafficking and violent crime networks operating in the region. The collaborative nature of the operation, bringing together multiple law enforcement agencies, demonstrates a coordinated effort to combat the opioid epidemic and gun violence plaguing many Upstate New York communities.

The details

Through 'Operation Clean Sweep,' law enforcement seized 475 grams of fentanyl, 63 pounds of methamphetamine, over 2 kilograms of liquid methadone, 350 grams of crack cocaine, 1.6 kilograms of cocaine, 2.6 pounds of mushrooms, and more than 400 pounds of marijuana, cannabis, and THC products. They also confiscated 20 illegal firearms. District Attorney Paul Battisti says the amount of fentanyl alone was enough to kill everyone in Broome County.

  • The initiative started in the first quarter of 2025 when Assistant United States Attorney for the Northern District of New York, John Sarcone, met with local and state law enforcement leaders to encourage greater collaboration.
  • The results of 'Operation Clean Sweep' were announced at a news conference held by District Attorney Paul Battisti on April 16, 2026.

The players

Paul Battisti

The District Attorney of Broome County, New York, who led the 'Operation Clean Sweep' initiative and announced the results at a news conference.

John Sarcone

The Assistant United States Attorney for the Northern District of New York who initially encouraged greater collaboration between local and state law enforcement agencies, leading to the start of 'Operation Clean Sweep'.

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What they’re saying

“Violence, drug trafficking, illegal firearms and repeated criminal conduct will not be tolerated in Broome County. We are committed to using every lawful tool available to identify offenders, hold them accountable and reduce the harm they cause in our neighborhoods.”

— Paul Battisti, District Attorney

What’s next

District Attorney Battisti stated that 'Operation Clean Sweep' is not a one-time action, but rather an ongoing commitment to reducing crime across the region.

The takeaway

This large-scale law enforcement operation demonstrates the ability of agencies to work collaboratively to disrupt major drug trafficking and gun crime networks operating in Upstate New York. The seizure of such significant quantities of dangerous drugs and illegal firearms represents a meaningful step in combating the opioid epidemic and gun violence that have plagued many communities in the region.