Joint Federal-Local Drug Operation in Birmingham Leads to Arrest, Seizure of Narcotics, Weapons

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (BuzzReport)— A coordinated narcotics operation carried out by the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration Huntsville Field Division resulted in the arrest of a Birmingham man and the seizure of illegal drugs, firearms, and cash on Wednesday, April 15, 2026.

Authorities executed search warrants at two locations in the city, including the 1100 block of 16th Avenue South and the 10 block of 4th Avenue North. The operation was supported by SWAT teams and other specialized units, underscoring the high-risk nature of the investigation.

According to Sheriff Mark Pettway, the joint effort successfully removed a dangerous individual, along with illegal narcotics and weapons, from the community.

Investigators identified the suspect as 33-year-old Quadarius Henley. He has been charged with drug trafficking, unlawful distribution of a controlled substance, and being a person forbidden to possess a firearm. Henley is currently being held in the Jefferson County Jail on a $275,000 bond.

During the operation, authorities seized a variety of narcotics, including approximately 22.3 grams of fentanyl, 27.3 grams of methamphetamine, 79 grams of marijuana, five Xanax pills, and one hydrocodone pill. Law enforcement officials also confiscated $7,797 in cash believed to be connected to drug activity.

In addition to drugs and money, multiple firearms were recovered from the locations. These included an AR-15 style pistol, a .22 caliber revolver, a .38 caliber revolver, a 9mm semi-automatic handgun, and a .45 caliber semi-automatic handgun.

Investigators also seized items commonly associated with drug distribution, including a drug press, a digital scale, and two cell phones.

Authorities say the investigation remains ongoing and additional charges or arrests could follow. Officials are urging anyone with information related to illegal drug activity to contact the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office at 205-325-1450 or Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777.