Crystal Meth trafficking ring busted

Three people have been arrested as part of an investigation into the trafficking of crystal meth in Lawrence County, Ohio.

The Lawrence Drug & Major Crimes Task Force says the investigation started in January with undercover officers making numerous controlled buys of crystal meth in the Ironton and South Point areas.

Thursday, Task Force Officers and Deputies from the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office say they arrested Andrew J. Holland, 32, of South Point, after making a controlled buy in the 1100 block of South 3rd Street in Ironton.

Also arrested during the operation were Stephen E. King JR, 29, of South Point, Ohio, and William J. Huskey, of Ironton.

The Task Force says Holland and King were each armed with handguns when they were arrested. During a search of Holland’s vehicle they found nearly $6,000 in cash and 157 grams of crystal meth with an estimated street value of $23,500.00, according to a news release.

Investigators say Holland would send money to a source out of state who would then ship the crystal meth to various locations where Holland would take delivery.

Officers say they are optimistic Holland’s arrest will severely diminish the availability of crystal meth in the community.

All three men are charged with trafficking in crystal meth. They will be arraigned in Ironton Municipal Court on Monday.

Published by wsaz.com