RICHLAND COUNTY, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—On April 18, 2024, the METRICH Enforcement Unit spearheaded a major interdiction operation in Richland County, Ohio. The operation was a collaborative effort involving multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Mansfield Police Department, Richland County Sheriff’s Office, Ontario Police Department, Shelby Police Department, and the Ohio State Highway Patrol.

The initiative aimed to saturate areas within Richland County with law enforcement to interdict criminal activity and enhance safety. The focus was on high-volume traffic stops in areas of reported drug activity, with resources readily available to assist individuals suffering from substance use disorder.

Operation Results

The operation resulted in:

  • 108 traffic stops initiated
  • 22 citations issued
  • 3 felony arrests (drug-related)
  • 1 misdemeanor arrest (non-drug related)
  • 5 misdemeanor arrests (drug-related)
  • 11 drug-related cases
  • 3 non-drug-related cases
  • 6 warrants served
  • 7 QRT contacts
  • 3 individuals connected to treatment
  • 16 search authorizations

In terms of drug seizures, the operation confiscated:

  • 11 grams of methamphetamine
  • 16 grams of cocaine
  • 33.5 grams of crack
  • 0.5 grams of heroin
  • 5 RX pills
  • 1 counterfeit pill

A Word from METRICH Lt. Steve Blust

METRICH Lt. Steve Blust stated that the operation was a success and expressed gratitude to the area law enforcement agencies that participated and all the other collaborating agencies that assisted. He emphasized that the collaboration between the Richland County law enforcement agencies and the METRICH Enforcement Unit continues to have a positive impact on removing illegal drugs from the Richland County communities while getting the proper help to those in need.

The METRICH Enforcement Unit encourages citizens to continue to be proactive by reporting suspected drug activity. Citizens can call the METRICH Crime Tip Hotline at 419-52-CRIME (419-522-7463) or the Task Force line at 419-755-9728. Tips can also be submitted via the METRICH App.