Wellsville, Ohio – A coordinated law-enforcement operation uncovered fentanyl, crack cocaine, cocaine, and cash inside a Wellsville home, leading to one arrest and a deeper investigation into suspected drug-trafficking activities in the Ohio Valley. The multi-agency raid highlights growing concerns about narcotics distribution networks operating across Columbiana County.
What Investigators Found Inside the Wellsville Residence
Deputies and agents executed the search warrant at a home located at 507 15th Street on November 25, 2025, according to information provided through WTRF. Four individuals were found inside the residence: Ramel Shephard, Destiny Earich, Taylor Thrasher, and Tysin Gordon.
Thrasher was immediately taken into custody due to an outstanding warrant.
Once inside, investigators began a full search of the property, where they located multiple forms of suspected narcotics, packaging materials, and items commonly used for drug distribution.
Breakdown of Items Seized
Authorities cataloged several substances and cash totals during the search. According to the Columbiana County Drug Task Force, the following were recovered from the home:
| Evidence Seized | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Suspected cocaine | 14 grams |
| Suspected crack cocaine | 15.5 grams |
| Suspected fentanyl | 2 grams |
| Cash | $880 |
Investigators stated that the substances were packaged for resale, reinforcing suspicions that the location was being used for ongoing distribution operations. The discovery of paraphernalia—such as scales, baggies, and other tools—further supported the trafficking indicators.
Agencies Involved in the Operation
The search warrant was carried out by the Columbiana County Drug Task Force (CCDTF) in partnership with the Columbiana County Sheriff’s Office, Wellsville Police Department, and Sheriff Brian McLaughlin. Additional support came from:
- Columbiana County Prosecutor’s Office
- Salem Police Department
- East Liverpool Police Department
- Lisbon Police Department
- Columbiana Police Department
- Liverpool Township Police Department
- Ohio Adult Parole Authority
These agencies routinely collaborate on narcotics investigations across the region, especially when cases involve multiple suspects or suspected organized trafficking.
Why This Raid Matters for the Ohio Valley
Drug-related investigations remain a priority across the Ohio Valley as fentanyl continues to fuel overdoses throughout the region. Even small quantities of fentanyl—such as the 2 grams recovered in this raid—carry extreme risk.
Crack cocaine and cocaine distribution have also played a significant role in violent incidents, addiction spikes, and community safety concerns in surrounding areas.
Raids like this one help law enforcement identify distribution sources, gather intelligence on broader networks, and reduce the flow of dangerous substances into neighborhoods.
What Happens Next in the Investigation
Authorities say the investigation is ongoing, and additional charges may be filed once lab testing and evidence review are completed. Detectives will continue examining communication records, packaging materials, and other seized items to determine the full extent of the operation and whether more individuals were involved.
Residents in the area are encouraged to report suspicious activity anonymously to local departments, as community tips remain one of the most effective tools in tracking drug-trafficking activity.
Community Impact and Safety Awareness
The Ohio Valley has seen a consistent rise in fentanyl-related incidents over recent years, leading many departments to increase patrols, overdose-response training, and public-awareness efforts. Law-enforcement officials stress the importance of recognizing signs of local drug activity, including:
- Unusual foot traffic at late hours
- Short-stay visitors
- Strong chemical or burnt smells
- Frequent trash containing baggies or foil
- Security cameras or barricades placed in unusual ways
Understanding these indicators helps communities stay proactive in reporting concerns before they escalate.
Conclusion
The Wellsville raid underscores the ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking across Columbiana County. With multiple agencies involved and significant evidence recovered, investigators are working to determine how deeply the operation extended and what additional actions may follow.
Share your thoughts or experiences about drug-safety concerns in your area in the comments below.
