ELYRIA — Elyria police say a multi-week enforcement effort known as “Operation Sub Zero” resulted in 30 arrests, the recovery of 14 firearms and the seizure of 3.75 ounces of illegal narcotics.
According to a press release issued Feb. 9, 2026, the Elyria Police Department described the operation as a zero-tolerance winter initiative targeting violent crime, drug activity and weapons offenses within the City of Elyria. The operation ran from Jan. 1 through Feb. 6, 2026.
Police said multiple units were involved, including the Neighborhood Impact Unit, Narcotics Unit, Detective Bureau, Patrol Division and Special Response Team. During the operation, officers executed seven residential search warrants.
Police Chief James Welsh said the initiative was intended to send a message that enforcement efforts would continue despite winter conditions. Mayor Kevin A. Brubaker also praised the operation and said the city remains committed to addressing violent crime.
The department reported that arrests during the operation included a mix of misdemeanor and felony-level offenses. Police did not provide a breakdown of drug types or quantities tied to individual cases.
Names and photos released by police were not republished because the operation included a mix of felony and misdemeanor allegations, and this report focuses on the overall results of the initiative rather than individual cases.
Anyone with information related to drug activity is encouraged to contact the Elyria Police Narcotics Tip Line at 440-322-7264 or submit tips anonymously through the city’s website at cityofelyria.org/tips.