Marengo, IL – A SWAT team from the McHenry County Sheriff’s Office arrested Amador Abel, 52, of South Elgin, after finding three kilograms of cocaine, worth an estimated $120,000, during a court-authorized search warrant near Marengo Wednesday afternoon.
The Arrest and Search Details
The search, conducted in the 23400 block of Harmony Road, was part of a broader investigation into drug trafficking. The sheriff’s office SWAT team executed the search warrant on a farm in unincorporated Marengo.
Upon arrival, Amador Abel was found hiding inside a barn on the property. Abel, along with other individuals present, was detained during the search.
The search also covered all vehicles on the property, including a red tow truck parked on-site. Initially, no one claimed ownership of the vehicle, and officers threatened to break its window to gain access. Eventually, Abel confessed the truck belonged to him and handed over the keys to the SWAT team.
Discovery of Cocaine and Criminal History
Inside the tow truck, investigators found approximately three kilograms of a substance that tested positive for cocaine. The street value of the seized drugs is estimated at up to $126,000. The truck’s registration was linked to Amador’s home address, and he had arrived at the farm shortly before officers conducted their search.
According to officials, low-level dealers typically purchase cocaine in ounces (1 kilogram = 35 ounces). The street value per ounce ranges between $800 and $1,200, which contributes to the high worth of the recovered cocaine.
Criminal Charges and Court Hearing
Amador was charged with manufacturing or delivery of 900+ grams of cocaine, a Class X felony, and possession of 900+ grams of cocaine, a Class 1 felony. Court documents reveal that Abel has a minimal criminal history.
Following his arrest, the McHenry County State’s Attorney’s Office filed a petition to detain Abel pending trial, asserting that he poses a danger to the community.
Judge Cynthia Lamb granted the petition during a detention hearing on Thursday. The judge emphasized that the large quantity of cocaine found during the raid indicated Abel’s involvement in drug distribution.
“This court finds that no conditions exist that would mitigate the risk that this defendant poses to the person or persons of the community,” Judge Lamb stated.
Amador is currently being held in McHenry County Jail and is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on October 15.
Community Impact and Law Enforcement Response
The seizure of such a large quantity of cocaine highlights the ongoing efforts by local law enforcement to combat drug trafficking in the area. Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant as investigations continue.
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