Butler County, OH – The Butler County Sheriff’s Office announced two major crystal methamphetamine busts over consecutive days, resulting in multiple arrests and the seizure of over one pound of meth and $1,000 in cash. The operations were conducted by the Butler County Undercover Regional Narcotics Taskforce (BURN) as part of an ongoing effort to curb drug trafficking in the area.
The Incident: Two Consecutive Drug Operations
According to the Butler County Sheriff’s Office, the first bust took place on February 14, when undercover agents observed what appeared to be a drug transaction in the AutoZone parking lot on Roosevelt Boulevard in Middletown.
During the operation, deputies arrested Francisco Torres-Davila and Ramon Sanchez-Reyes, both of whom were later confirmed to be in the United States illegally. Officers seized more than a pound of crystal methamphetamine and $1,000 in cash from the suspects.
The street value of the drugs was estimated at $36,000, according to Sheriff Richard Jones, who called the arrests a major success in disrupting local narcotics distribution networks.
Investigation and Evidence Collected
The BURN unit, which specializes in undercover narcotics investigations, initiated the bust after witnessing suspicious activity between the suspects in the parking lot. Investigators say the men were part of a larger drug operation tied to cartel-linked distribution networks in the region.
Both suspects face charges of drug trafficking and possession, and the sheriff’s office has confirmed that immigration authorities have been notified.
“These guys admitted they are here illegally and they are making money here selling their poison,” said Sheriff Jones. “This is Mexican Cartel money with a street value of about $36,000. They crossed the border and brought drugs with them—drugs that kill people.”
Sheriff Jones added that both suspects are currently being held in Butler County Jail, pending further investigation and deportation proceedings.
Second Bust: Four Additional Arrests
Just one day earlier, on February 13, the BURN task force executed another undercover drug operation that led to four additional arrests. Authorities said they intercepted a stolen car containing a significant amount of crystal meth during a planned narcotics exchange.
The suspects were identified as Jacob Poynter, Jessica Anderson, Jeremy Earls, and Heather Hapney.
- Poynter and Anderson were both charged with drug possession.
- Earls was found to have an active failure-to-appear warrant.
- Hapney was charged with failure to comply.
Sheriff Jones said the two back-to-back busts demonstrate the department’s commitment to tackling drug activity in Butler County.
“We continue to see cartel-linked drugs coming into our communities, and our deputies are working nonstop to stop it,” he said.
Court Proceedings and Next Steps
All suspects from both operations are currently facing felony drug charges, with investigations continuing into possible larger trafficking connections. Authorities expect federal agencies to become involved due to the cross-border implications of the February 14 case.
The Butler County Prosecutor’s Office has confirmed that formal indictments are expected once lab results and financial records are reviewed. The sheriff’s office has also reported that both operations will be referenced in upcoming community safety briefings on drug enforcement strategies.
Background: Butler County’s Fight Against Meth Trafficking
Butler County has seen a steady rise in meth-related arrests over the past year, with local law enforcement citing cartel-linked trafficking as a recurring issue. The BURN Taskforce, which operates across multiple jurisdictions, has been instrumental in dismantling local drug networks and preventing high-volume meth distribution.
Officials continue to urge residents to report suspicious activity, emphasizing that community tips play a vital role in identifying and disrupting illegal drug operations.
Ongoing Developments
As both investigations progress, additional charges or federal referrals may be filed. Sheriff Jones reiterated his stance on strengthening border control and enforcement coordination to combat cartel-driven meth operations reaching local communities.
He also warned that taxpayer resources are being used to house and process offenders who entered the country illegally, renewing his call for stricter immigration enforcement.
Conclusion
The two consecutive meth busts in Butler County highlight the region’s continued struggle against drug trafficking and cartel influence. With six arrests, significant drug seizures, and an ongoing investigation, law enforcement officials say they remain committed to keeping dangerous narcotics off the streets.
What are your thoughts on Butler County’s recent meth busts and rising drug enforcement efforts? Share your opinions in the comments below.
