Lake County, MI – Three men are facing multiple felony charges following a drug and weapons investigation that resulted in the execution of a search warrant in Sauble Township, authorities confirmed.
According to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, deputies carried out the search warrant at a residence on North Mac Road as part of an ongoing investigation into suspected controlled substance activity in the area. The operation led to the arrest of Matthew J. VanDyke, Alexander K. Charnes, and Lamont J. Issacs, all of whom were formally charged in connection with evidence recovered during the search.
Search Warrant and Investigation Details
The search warrant was executed after investigators gathered information suggesting illegal drug activity at the Sauble Township property. During the search, deputies reportedly located controlled substances, including narcotics and methamphetamine, along with ammunition and firearms that authorities say the suspects were legally prohibited from possessing.
Lake County Sheriff Rick Martin confirmed the charges in a press release issued on December 9, stating that the arrests were the result of a coordinated enforcement effort.
“This investigation remains ongoing, and additional information may be released as it becomes available,” the sheriff’s office noted in its statement.
Charges Filed Against the Suspects
Court records show that Matthew J. VanDyke faces two felony charges, including possession of narcotics or cocaine and possession of ammunition by a prohibited person. His bond was set at $200,000 cash or surety, reflecting the seriousness of the alleged offenses.
Alexander K. Charnes was charged with possession of methamphetamine or ecstasy and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. His bond was set at $25,000, significantly lower than the others involved in the case.
Lamont J. Issacs faces charges identical to Charnes, including possession of methamphetamine or ecstasy and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. Court officials set his bond at $200,000 cash or surety.
All three arrests stem from the same search warrant and are believed to be connected to suspected drug distribution activities in the region.
Weapons and Controlled Substances Seized
While authorities confirmed the recovery of drugs and weapons, investigators have not released details about the exact quantities of narcotics seized or the types of firearms recovered during the search. Officials also have not disclosed whether additional suspects may be involved or if further arrests are expected.
Law enforcement agencies often withhold specific evidence details during active investigations to protect the integrity of the case and any potential future prosecutions.
Ongoing Efforts to Combat Drug Activity
The Lake County Sheriff’s Office emphasized that the investigation is part of a broader effort to address drug-related crime in the county. Controlled substance distribution and illegal firearm possession remain ongoing public safety concerns, particularly in rural communities where resources can be limited.
Authorities continue to encourage residents to report suspicious activity, noting that community tips often play a key role in developing probable cause for search warrants and arrests.
What Happens Next
The suspects are expected to appear in court for arraignment and future hearings as the case proceeds through the judicial system. Prosecutors will determine whether additional charges are warranted as evidence is reviewed.
Officials have stated that more information will be shared if the investigation expands or if new developments arise.
Residents with information related to illegal drug activity in Lake County are urged to contact local law enforcement.
If you live in the area or have concerns about drug-related activity in your community, share your thoughts or experiences in the comments below.
