Dayton, OH – A multi-agency task force operation in Montgomery County resulted in the arrests of two men on drug, firearm, and supervision-related charges, according to the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities say the coordinated effort involved the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, the R.A.N.G.E. Task Force, the U.S. Marshals Service, and the FBI Safe Streets Task Force, highlighting ongoing collaboration between local and federal agencies targeting narcotics and weapons-related crime in the Dayton area.
Coordinated Arrest on High Ridge Avenue
Officials confirmed that deputies and federal agents apprehended Charles Steinmetz on High Ridge Avenue on December 11, 2025. Investigators say Steinmetz attempted to flee when law enforcement moved in but was safely detained without further incident.
At the time of his arrest, authorities report that Steinmetz was found in possession of a firearm and narcotics, raising immediate concerns given his criminal history and existing warrants.
Law enforcement sources indicated that the arrest location had been under surveillance as part of a broader investigation into suspected drug trafficking activity within Montgomery County.
Federal Warrants and Serious Charges
According to the Sheriff’s Office, Steinmetz was wanted on multiple federal warrants, including:
- Conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine
- Felon in possession of a firearm
- Possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime
In addition to the federal charges, officials say Steinmetz was also wanted for a parole violation connected to a prior drug trafficking conviction. Investigators noted that evidence recovered during the arrest is still being reviewed, and additional federal charges may be filed as the case progresses.
Authorities emphasized that firearm possession in connection with narcotics trafficking significantly elevates the danger to both the public and responding officers, making such arrests a top priority for joint task forces.
Second Arrest During Same Operation
During the same enforcement action, a second individual, Joseph Hartz, was also taken into custody. Officials confirmed that Hartz was arrested on a probation violation warrant stemming from prior burglary and breaking and entering charges.
While Hartz was not named in the federal narcotics investigation, authorities stated that his arrest was directly connected to the coordinated operation taking place in the area at the time.
Both men are currently being held pending further court proceedings.
Law Enforcement Praises Interagency Collaboration
The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office credited the success of the operation to close coordination among participating agencies.
“This case demonstrates the outstanding teamwork between local deputies and our federal partners,” the Sheriff’s Office said in a statement. “These partnerships are essential in removing dangerous individuals, illegal drugs, and firearms from our communities.”
Officials stressed that joint task forces such as R.A.N.G.E. and the FBI Safe Streets Task Force play a crucial role in addressing complex criminal networks that cross jurisdictional boundaries.
Ongoing Efforts to Combat Drug and Gun Crime
Methamphetamine trafficking continues to pose serious challenges across southwest Ohio, with law enforcement agencies reporting a steady flow of narcotics linked to organized distribution networks. The presence of firearms during drug-related offenses further increases the risk of violence, making enforcement actions like this one a central focus for authorities.
Investigators say operations like the one conducted on High Ridge Avenue are part of a long-term strategy aimed at disrupting supply chains, enforcing supervision conditions, and preventing repeat offenses by individuals with prior convictions.
Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activity to local law enforcement, as tips from the community often assist in building cases and improving neighborhood safety.
What Happens Next
Steinmetz is expected to face proceedings in federal court, while Hartz will answer to violations tied to his probation status. Officials say more information may be released as charges are finalized and court dates are scheduled.
The Sheriff’s Office reiterated its commitment to proactive enforcement and interagency cooperation as investigations into narcotics and firearm offenses continue throughout Montgomery County.
Share your experiences in the comments below.
