GIBSONTON, Fla. (WFLA) — Three people with extensive criminal histories were arrested Thursday following an undercover operation in Hillsborough County that led to a helicopter chase.

The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office said its Street Crimes Unit was conducting an operation targeting drug activity on Thursday, Dec. 5 in Gibsonton when the incident unfolded.

Undercover detectives reportedly observed 34-year-old Roy Sprouse selling methamphetamine and fentanyl to 29-year-old Adolfo Region.

Authorities were able to take Sprouse into custody but said Regino fled from the scene. A helicopter crew was called in to assist and tracked Regino to a residence off Corwin Street.

Aerial footage showed Regino’s legs sticking out as he tried to crawl under a trailer near the home. With aid from above, deputies quickly caught up with Regino and were able to place him under arrest, the sheriff’s office said.

While at the home on Corwin Street, authorities said they found and arrested 40-year-old Anthony Greco, another known offender with active warrants.

“This operation is a testament to the exceptional coordination and expertise of our deputies and Aviation Section,” Sheriff Chad Chronister said. “By removing these individuals and these harmful substances from our streets, we are making all of Hillsborough County safer for our residents.”

Regino, Greco, and Sprouse are facing the following charges:

Aldolfo Regino:

  • Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Sell or Deliver
  • Driving with License Canceled, Suspended, or Revoked
  • Resisting Officer without Violence
  • Unlawful Possession of Personal Identification of Another
  • Felon Carrying Concealed Weapon
  • Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
  • Delivery of a Controlled Substance x 2
  • Possession of a Controlled Substance x 2
  • Failure to Appear: Felon in Possession Firearm
  • Failure to Appear: Aggravated Assault with Deadly Weapon
  • Failure to Appear: Sexual Cyberharassment
  • Failure to Appear: Violation of Domestic Violence Injunction
  • Violation of Domestic Violence Injunction

Anthony Greco:

  • Failure to Appear: Felony Petit Theft
  • VOP Felony Petit Theft Bond None x 2

Roy Sprouse:

  • Delivery of a Controlled Substance x 2