METRICH seizes 20 pounds of pot

The METRICH Enforcement Unit seized about 20 pounds of marijuana during a traffic stop Monday. The drugs had a street value of about $30,000.

Three people were arrested as part of a joint investigation with the Drug Enforcement Agency. The Columbus High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas task force also assisted.

Ronnie Perry, 36, and Vowana Butler, 36, both were arrested on two felony charges of possession of marijuana. They were together in the vehicle that was pulled over at Grandridge Avenue and South Diamond Street.

William J. Hettinger, 40, was picked up later on misdemeanor counts of possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Detectives also seized two vehicles, cash, and drug paraphernalia as part of a week-long investigation. Further charges are pending.
Detective Perry Wheeler reiterated the importance of citizen involvement through crime tips, and reporting suspected drug activity.

Originally published in the News Journal on June 20, 2012.