News Summary
A police operation in North Memphis led to the arrest of four men and the seizure of firearms and illegal drugs. The Organized Crime Unit, alongside federal agencies, executed a search warrant at a residence resulting in significant discoveries including cash linked to drug sales. The suspects face serious charges related to drug possession and illegal firearm use as they prepare for court appearances this Friday.
Memphis โ Four men were taken into custody in North Memphis after a police operation on July 29, 2025, which uncovered multiple firearms and illegal drugs. The Memphis Police Department’s Organized Crime Unit, in collaboration with the FBI and DEA task forces, executed the search at a residence in the 2100 block of Eldridge Avenue around 2:30 a.m.
Following a failed attempt to gain entry when no one answered the door, officers used force to enter the premises. Three suspectsโMarquez Crawford, Deterion Bland, and Jayrion Branchโreportedly attempted to escape by jumping out of a window, but were quickly apprehended in the backyard. Mardrecus Crawford was detained at a nearby front yard.
During the arrests, Mardrecus Crawford was found carrying a black satchel containing $4,000 in cash. Upon further investigation within the property, detectives discovered several small bags of a white powdery substance along with cash on a coffee table. Additionally, a significant amount of powder was located in a zip-lock bag inside a black Nike backpack. The operation also led to the seizure of four handguns, an American Tactical AR pistol, and a rifle which were found concealed under a mattress. Notably, one handgun was equipped with a machine gun conversion device, and two of the firearms were reported as stolen.
The investigation yielded further evidence of illegal activity, including a second machine conversion switch, various magazines, ammunition, and digital scales found on the premises. Moreover, seizure paperwork associated with Marquez Crawford was located, reinforcing the investigators’ findings. Cash recovered during the operation totaled $7,150, which is believed to be linked to illegal drug sales. Of this amount, additional smaller sums of $675 were found on Branch, $271 on Bland, and $2,010 in the living room of the residence.
The four suspects face serious charges following their arrests. Deterion Bland (21) and Mardrecus Crawford (18) are charged with possession of a controlled substance with intent to manufacture, deliver, and sell fentanyl and methamphetamine, possession of a felony, and evading arrest. Jayrion Branch (19) and Marquez Crawford (21) face similar charges, but with additional counts related to the possession of firearms modified for automatic use.
Bonds have been set with Marquez Crawford and Deterion Bland each required to post $225,000, Mardrecus Crawford set at $150,000, and Jayrion Branch at $25,000. All four men are scheduled to appear in court this coming Friday.
Background on the Investigation
This operation is part of a broader initiative by the Memphis Police Department to curtail drug-related crimes and firearm possession in the region. The collaboration with federal agencies like the FBI and DEA highlights the seriousness of tackling the growing issues surrounding drug distribution and gun violence in urban areas.
Local authorities emphasize the importance of addressing the surge in opioid use and trafficking, with fentanyl being one of the most concerning substances as it has contributed to numerous drug-related fatalities in cities across the United States.
Public Safety Concerns
The arrests reflect ongoing challenges in maintaining public safety in Memphis, particularly in areas plagued by drug activity and illegal firearm possession. Law enforcement agencies have reiterated their commitment to enforcing drug laws and reducing violent crime, seeking community support and vigilance in their efforts to mitigate these issues.
The events of July 29 serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle against drug abuse and gun violence, as the four individuals prepare to face legal consequences for their actions this week.
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Additional Resources
- WREG: Guns, Drugs, and Cash Seized in Memphis Drug Bust
- Google Search: Memphis drug bust
- Fox 13: Man Arrested with Meth
- Wikipedia: Drug Policy in the United States
- Billboard: Glorilla Arrested
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Fentanyl
- Action News 5: Joint Undercover Investigation in Memphis
- Google News: Gun Violence Memphis
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
