The METRICH Enforcement Unit conducted a follow-up investigation on Nov. 5 at approximately 3:47 p.m. at 288 Elmwood Drive regarding drug complaints. During the investigation, detectives observed numerous marijuana plants on the back porch of the residence.
METRICH detectives drafted a search warrant, which was signed by the Honorable Judge Frank Ardis. The METRICH Enforcement Unit, assisted by the Mansfield Police Department served the search warrant.
During the search, detectives seized 14 mature marijuana plants and over 1,000 grams of marijuana with an estimated street value of $5,000, $1,979 in U.S. currency, a loaded .38 caliber Smith & Wesson handgun, two 12-gauge shotguns, one 20-gauge shotgun, one .22 caliber handgun, one .22 caliber rifle, one .380 caliber Smith & Wesson handgun and marijuana cultivation equipment.
Detectives arrested and charged Joann W. Eckstein with Possession of Marijuana F-3.
Additional charges will be forwarded to the Richland County Prosecutors Office for review.
Lt. Joy Stortz stated that this is an excellent example of citizens reporting suspicious drug activity in their neighborhood which resulted in a significant amount of drugs and weapons being taken out of our community.
Citizens are encouraged to be proactive by reporting suspected drug activity. Citizens can call the METRICH crime tip hotline at 419-52-CRIME (419-522-7463) or 419-755- 9728.
