The Criminal Interdiction Unit (CIU) consists of specially trained troopers designated as felony officers and canine handlers. These troopers are strategically assigned throughout the state to patrol the interstate system and other highways in order to interdict drug couriers and other criminal activity. The CIU assists other federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies in the detection and apprehension of drug traffickers and other criminal offenders that utilize the roadways of Florida. The CIU is an active participant in various enforcement operations coordinated by the Florida Office of Drug Control.

The CIU is equipped with sophisticated drug detection equipment such as fiber optic scopes, drug detection devices, electronic measuring devices, dual-purpose canines, and various other tools.

During the period of July - December 2011 the FHP seized 1,443 pounds of marijuana, 60 pounds of cocaine, 409 grams of crack cocaine, 225 grams of heroin, 17 pounds of methamphetamine, $2.6 million dollars in U.S. currency and more than $13.2 million dollars in total seized contraband. Another 14,000 grams of other types of illegal drugs, and prescription medications totaling more than $470,000 were seized during this period. The total value of illegal drugs seized in this period is $9.8 million dollars. Troopers seized 94 weapons with a value of more than $38,000 dollars and 43 vehicles valued at more than $430,000 dollars. These seizures resulted in 1,229 persons arrested and 1,169 felony charges.