A covert investigation yielded the arrest of six Winona men on drug charges on Oct. 25.
Montgomery County deputies and Winona police, along with the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics (MBN), the U.S. Marshals’ Fugitive Task Force and the Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) arrested the men on charges of sale of cocaine, sale of methamphetamine, sale of controlled substance, possession of marijuana with intent to sell and bench warrants from Montgomery County, according to a statement released by Sheriff Jeff Tompkins.
Charles Curry, 32, faces three counts of sale of cocaine, and Nekia Cooley, 43, faces one count of sale of methamphetamine, according to Tompkins.
Michael Forrest, 48, was arrested on one count of possession of marijuana with intent to sell, and Jermany Fleming, 34, was charged with two counts of sale of cocaine, the release stated.
Ronnie Reed, 35, and Samuel Green, 23, were arrested on bench warrants, according to Tompkins.
The operation, code named “Operation: M30 Blues,” was a joint investigation by the MBN, Montgomery County Sheriff’s Department, and Winona Police Department, according to the release.
“The operation covered several months and focused on individuals selling illegal drugs in the area particularly targeting fentanyl pills with the M30 stamping and Methamphetamine,” Tompkins stated. “This series of arrests is the first, and more are expected.”
During the operation, officials developed probable cause to execute a search warrant at the home of Kendric Evans at 150 Loggins Road, and agents seized 12 weapons that included multiple rifles, shotguns, handguns and derringers along with ammunition for the weapons, according to Tompkins.
“Agents also seized additional methamphetamine and what appeared to be heroin, based on color and texture, dosage units of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, and approximately a half kilogram of marijuana,” stated Tompkins. “Agents also seized a press that was being used to make marijuana ‘dabs,’ which is an altered form of marijuana made from the buds. “
MBN seized the drugs, and the ATF seized the weapons. Federal charges could be pending.
Tompkins said each of the agencies played an important role in the arrests. WPD provided necessary information for the investigation.
“The marshals are really good at finding people. The ATF came in handy at the house with all the illegal weapons. He was a felon; he shouldn’t have had all those weapons,” said Tompkins.
He said while he appreciates the assistance of the agencies, he gives God all of the glory for the successful apprehension of the six men.
“I am very thankful to God who blessed us, and no one was hurt,” said Tompkins.
