Man charged with trafficking after bust on Spayer Lane

A man was charged with drug trafficking Tuesday night after detectives, acting on complaints, seized a large quantity of crack cocaine and other drugs at 492 Spayer Lane.

The METRICH Enforcement Unit arrested Martin Rawls Jr. after finding illegal narcotics, a double barrel sawed-off shotgun and a handgun, according to Lt. Keith Porch.

Rawls was taken to the Richland County Jail and may face additional charges, Porch said.

Drugs found included crack cocaine, powder cocaine, black tar heroin, marijuana and a “significant amount” cash, according to Porch.

While knocking on the door, officers saw several occupants flee to the kitchen area. While speaking with occupants, detectives smelled marijuana emanating from inside the residence. Rawls gave officers permission to search his residence. Shortly after beginning the search, a large quantity of crack cocaine was observed in the kitchen. The residence was secured and a search warrant was obtained, signed by Mansfield Municipal Court Judge Frank Ardis. The search was conducted around 10:15 p.m., Porch said.

Originally published in the News Journal on October 3, 2013.