A multi-agency narcotics investigation culminated in an arrest and the seizure of crack cocaine and other drug distribution evidence yesterday in Benton Harbor, just steps from Benton Harbor High School.
The Southwest Enforcement Team, West Office (SWET West), working in collaboration with the Berrien County Sheriff’s Office-road patrol and the Michigan State Police K9 unit, served a narcotics-related search warrant in the 800 block of Lavette Street.
During the operation, SWET detained a 42-year-old male resident of the home. A search of the residence revealed approximately 15 grams of crack cocaine, a smaller quantity of cocaine, a digital scale, and other materials indicative of drug manufacturing and distribution activities. Authorities noted that the residence was located less than 300 feet from Benton Harbor High School, a factor that significantly enhances the charges.
The suspect was arrested and booked on multiple charges, including:
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Delivery of crack-cocaine within 1000’ of a school, 2nd offense.
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Possession of cocaine, 2nd offense.
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Maintaining a drug house, 2nd offense.
SWET-West extended its gratitude to community members for reporting their suspicions, emphasizing that such tips are crucial to their ongoing investigations.
SWET-West is responsible for narcotic-related investigations across the greater Berrien, Van Buren, and Cass County areas. The public is encouraged to report any suspicious or narcotic-related information to their tip line at (269) 982-8664.
