Columbiana County, OH – A multi-agency drug raid in Wellsville led to the discovery of suspected cocaine, crack cocaine, fentanyl, and cash after officers searched a home on 15th Street Thursday morning. Four individuals were found inside the residence as agents carried out the operation, according to the Columbiana County Sheriff’s Office.
Incident Overview
The search warrant was executed at 507 15th St. in Wellsville as part of an ongoing drug-trafficking investigation. Agents with the Columbiana County Drug Task Force entered the home and encountered Ramel Shephard, Destiny Earich, Taylor Thrasher, and Tysin Gordon. Officials noted that Thrasher was taken into custody on an outstanding warrant unrelated to the search.
Authorities said the raid was part of a coordinated effort involving several agencies, a strategy often used in complex narcotics investigations to ensure officer safety and preserve evidence.
What Investigators Found Inside the Home
A detailed search uncovered multiple forms of suspected illegal drugs that officers say appeared prepared for distribution. The items seized include:
- 14 grams of suspected cocaine
- 15.5 grams of suspected crack cocaine
- 2 grams of suspected fentanyl
- $880 in cash
Investigators also reported finding drug paraphernalia and packaging materials commonly associated with trafficking operations. Officers noted that the substances were separated and stored in a way that suggested resale rather than personal use.
Support from Multiple Agencies
The operation brought together several law-enforcement groups across the county. According to the Sheriff’s Office, assistance came from:
- Columbiana County Prosecutor’s Office
- Salem Police Department
- East Liverpool Police Department
- Lisbon Police Department
- Columbiana Police Department
- Liverpool Township Police Department
- Wellsville Police Department
- Ohio Adult Parole Authority
This type of collaboration is typical in regional drug enforcement cases, especially when investigations target distribution networks extending across multiple towns.
Status of Charges and Investigation
Officials said no formal charges have been announced yet for the individuals found inside the home. The substances seized will undergo further testing, and investigators plan to review the evidence before submitting the case to prosecutors.
Authorities added that the investigation remains ongoing and emphasized that additional arrests or charges may follow as the case develops.
Why These Raids Matter for the Community
Drug task forces often highlight the dangers posed by cocaine, crack, and fentanyl — substances linked to overdoses, violent crime, and long-term community impact. Fentanyl in particular has been at the center of overdose spikes across Ohio, and even small amounts can be fatal.
Efforts like Thursday’s operation aim to disrupt local trafficking activity, reduce the availability of dangerous drugs, and gather intelligence on broader networks operating in the region.
Conclusion
The Wellsville raid marks another significant action by county agents working to curb illegal drug activity. With multiple agencies involved and evidence now under review, local investigators expect further developments as they continue their work on the case.
If you live in the area and have noticed increased police presence or similar activity, share your insights or experiences in the comments below.
