Manitowoc, Wisconsin – A preliminary court hearing has been postponed for a Virginia man accused in a large-scale methamphetamine case in Manitowoc County, as the suspect remains in custody on a high cash bond while seeking legal representation.
Preliminary hearing delayed as suspect seeks attorney
A preliminary hearing scheduled for Friday was delayed for Karonn Hamilton, 30, who is charged with conspiracy to manufacture and deliver amphetamine. Court records indicate the hearing has been rescheduled for January 8, allowing Hamilton additional time to retain an attorney.
Hamilton continues to be held in the Manitowoc County Jail on a $550,000 cash bond, reflecting the seriousness of the charges and the scale of the alleged drug operation.
Large meth seizure tied to multi-agency operation
Authorities say Hamilton was arrested on December 15 alongside Andre Allen and Corven Jones during a coordinated law enforcement operation. Investigators allege the men were in possession of methamphetamine valued at approximately $250,000.
According to officials, federal and local agencies worked together during the investigation, which culminated in arrests carried out with assistance from a SWAT team. Law enforcement described the operation as high risk due to concerns about weapons and the quantity of drugs involved.
Firearms discovered during arrests
Investigators say that during the arrests, two of the three suspects were found to be carrying loaded firearms. One of the guns recovered was later confirmed to have been stolen from Virginia, adding another layer of seriousness to the case and raising concerns about interstate criminal activity.
Authorities also reported seizing more than 25 pounds of methamphetamine, an amount that prosecutors say indicates intent to distribute rather than personal use. The quantity involved places the case among the larger meth busts handled in the region in recent years.
Co-defendants facing similar court proceedings
Hamilton’s co-defendants are also moving through the court system. Allen and Jones are scheduled to return to court on Monday, where their cases will continue to advance.
Bond amounts for the co-defendants remain significant:
- Andre Allen: $600,000 cash bond
- Corven Jones: $500,000 cash bond
Court officials have not yet indicated whether additional charges may be filed as the investigation continues.
Ongoing investigation and public safety concerns
Law enforcement officials have emphasized that investigations of this scale often involve extended collaboration between agencies and can uncover additional evidence over time. The presence of loaded firearms and the large quantity of drugs seized were cited as key factors in the high bond amounts set by the court.
Methamphetamine trafficking continues to be a major concern for Wisconsin communities, with officials warning that large shipments like the one seized can have widespread impacts, including increased addiction rates, violent crime, and strain on local health and social services.
Authorities encourage residents to report suspicious activity and remind the public that tips can often help prevent dangerous substances from reaching local streets.
What happens next
Hamilton is expected to appear in court on January 8 for his rescheduled preliminary hearing, provided he secures legal counsel. At that stage, prosecutors will be required to show that sufficient evidence exists to move the case forward to trial.
Allen and Jones will appear earlier, with their next court dates set for Monday, where judges will review procedural matters and determine next steps in their cases.
All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
As the case continues to unfold, authorities say more information may be released following future court appearances.
Share your thoughts or experiences related to this case in the comments below.
