In response to community complaints regarding open air drug trafficking on Shiloh Church Road in Newburg, the Charles County Sheriff’s Office launched an investigation that resulted in the arrests of nine people on Thursday.
“This has been an on-going problem for residents who live in that area. I simply will not tolerate drug activity anywhere in our community and these arrests demonstrate our commitment to keeping our neighborhoods safe,” said Sheriff Rex. W. Coffey.
Members of the Charles County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Task Force, Emergency Services Team, Community Policing Unit, and K-9 Unit, along with Maryland State Police executed a search warrant on Oct. 16, at a target house described as an open air drug market.
Crack cocaine worth approximately $780, marijuana worth approximately $540, paraphernalia consistent with distribution, and a .45 semi-auto handgun were seized. During the execution of the search and seizure warrant, numerous unsuspecting drug customers arrived at the residence and were subsequently arrested without incident.
The suspects were charged with crimes including: distribution of crack cocaine, possession of marijuana, possession of a handgun and theft. “This was excellent work by our detectives; their investigation and subsequent arrests really made a difference for people who live in that community. You can expect to see more operations just like this,” said Coffey.
For more information about the Narcotics Enforcement Section, visit the Charles County Sheriff’s Office Web site at www.ccso.us.