Utica, NY – A 44-year-old Utica man has been charged with multiple felony drug offenses after police seized large quantities of narcotics and cash during a recent drug investigation on Blandina Street, according to the Utica Police Department.
The Incident: Drug Raid on Blandina Street
Authorities said the investigation began after officers executed a search warrant at 748 Blandina Street on October 13. During the search, police recovered over 100 grams of cocaine, an unspecified quantity of methamphetamine, and more than $13,000 in cash.
At the time of the operation, 41-year-old William Grant was taken into custody and charged with multiple counts of drug possession. The discovery led investigators to identify a second suspect believed to be connected to the illegal operation.
Investigation and Arrest of Second Suspect
Following the initial arrest, police obtained multiple warrants for 44-year-old Sarin Chann, also of Utica. According to the department, officers located Chann during a traffic stop on Wednesday, October 22, and took him into custody without incident.
Officials said Chann’s arrest was part of a continuing investigation into drug distribution activity in the area. Detectives believe the two men may have been operating together in connection with the narcotics recovered during the raid.
Charges Filed and Court Proceedings
According to a press release from the Utica Police Department, Chann is charged with:
- One count of second-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance
- Two counts of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance
All three counts are felony offenses under New York State law. Chann was processed at the Utica Police Department and is scheduled to appear in Utica City Court at a later date.
The earlier arrestee, William Grant, also faces multiple possession charges, though police have not yet confirmed if the two cases will be prosecuted jointly.
Community Impact and Police Statement
Authorities say the seizure marks another step in the city’s ongoing effort to curb illegal narcotics activity in central New York. A spokesperson for the Utica Police Department said the substantial amount of cocaine and cash recovered underscores the seriousness of the operation.
“This was a significant drug seizure for the city,” the spokesperson said. “Our officers are committed to reducing drug trafficking and improving public safety in Utica neighborhoods.”
Local residents have reported ongoing concerns about drug-related crimes in the Blandina Street area, and police have promised increased patrols as investigations continue.
Background and Context
Drug enforcement officials say that both cocaine and methamphetamine distribution have been persistent problems in parts of Oneida County, with law enforcement agencies collaborating to identify key sources of illegal narcotics. The recent bust is part of a broader initiative to dismantle local trafficking networks.
The Utica Police Department’s Special Investigations Unit continues to work with state and federal partners to track drug activity in high-risk neighborhoods.
Ongoing Developments
As the case moves forward, police say additional arrests or charges could follow depending on the results of the ongoing investigation. Both suspects remain under legal supervision as the court process unfolds.
Authorities have not disclosed whether the seized drugs were connected to a larger operation or intended for street-level distribution, but investigators are expected to present further findings in court.
Conclusion
The arrests of Sarin Chann and William Grant highlight Utica’s growing efforts to combat drug trafficking and possession through targeted enforcement. The case remains under investigation, and both men are expected to reappear in court for future proceedings.
What are your thoughts on the ongoing drug enforcement efforts in Utica? Share your opinions in the comments below.
