Kenosha County, WI – Two people were taken into custody following a large-scale drug and firearms investigation conducted by the Kenosha Drug Operations Group, according to authorities.
The arrests occurred on Friday, December 12, after detectives executed a search warrant at a residence in the 2900 block of 31st Avenue in Kenosha. The operation followed weeks of surveillance and controlled purchases that investigators say uncovered a significant narcotics and weapons distribution operation.
Investigation Uncovers Drug and Firearms Activity
Officials identified Andrew Berg, 47, as the primary suspect in the case. Investigators allege Berg was operating a narcotics distribution network from the residence, selling multiple illegal substances to buyers in the area.
According to law enforcement, controlled buys conducted during the investigation revealed the sale of marijuana, psilocybin mushrooms, methamphetamine, and GHB, a substance commonly known as “liquid G.” GHB is a powerful central nervous system depressant that has been linked to overdoses and serious health risks.
Authorities say the investigation also uncovered evidence that Berg allegedly transferred firearms to an individual legally prohibited from possessing them, raising significant public safety concerns.
Second Suspect Arrested at Residence
During the execution of the search warrant, investigators also arrested Laura Mercado, 41, who was identified as Berg’s girlfriend. Officials say Mercado was taken into custody at the scene and later booked into the Kenosha County Jail along with Berg.
Both suspects were arrested without incident, according to the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office.
Charges Being Referred to Prosecutors
Prosecutors are reviewing multiple felony charges connected to the case. According to investigators, the referred charges include:
- Manufacture and delivery of controlled substances
- Maintaining a drug trafficking place
- Possession of narcotics with intent to deliver
- Reckless endangerment
In addition to these charges, Mercado is facing two counts of felon in possession of a firearm, based on evidence recovered during the search.
Officials emphasized that charging decisions will ultimately be made by prosecutors after a full review of the evidence.
Child Found at Scene, Sensitive Crimes Unit Involved
Authorities confirmed that a child was present at the residence at the time of the search. As a result, the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office Sensitive Crimes Unit has taken over that portion of the investigation.
Law enforcement officials did not release additional details regarding the child’s condition or custody status, citing the ongoing nature of the case and privacy considerations.
Multi-Agency Task Force Operation
The investigation was conducted by the Kenosha Drug Operations Group, with assistance from multiple state and federal agencies. Task force members from the Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and North Central High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area participated in the operation.
Officials confirmed that the case remains under review for potential federal prosecution, depending on the outcome of further analysis and charging decisions.
Sheriff Praises Investigators
Kenosha County Sheriff David Zoerner praised the work of the investigators involved in the case, citing their coordination and professionalism throughout the operation.
“This investigation reflects our commitment to protecting the community,” Zoerner said in a statement. “We will not tolerate individuals who traffic illegal drugs or place firearms into the hands of prohibited persons.”
Community Safety and Ongoing Review
Authorities noted that drug trafficking operations involving multiple controlled substances and firearms pose a heightened risk to neighborhoods, particularly when children are present. Law enforcement officials say operations like this are aimed at reducing violence, preventing overdoses, and disrupting organized criminal activity in Kenosha County.
The investigation remains active, and additional charges or arrests are possible as evidence continues to be reviewed.
Anyone with information related to drug or firearm activity in the area is encouraged to contact local law enforcement.
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