ASHLAND — Seven people were arrested Friday and 45 grams of suspected heroin were seized after an investigation resulting from citizen complaints about drug activity at 2242 Oakcrest Lane.
According to a press release, investigators also seized over 12 pounds of suspected marijuana, 2 pounds of suspected cocaine, a loaded .380 handgun and over $60,000 in cash.
The Ashland Police Division, in cooperation with the METRICH Enforcement Unit, Mansfield Police Department ASORT and the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office served a search warrant for narcotics at the Oakcrest Lane residence. The case was a result of citizen complaints starting in 2008 referring to possible drug activity at the residence.
The following were arrested during the warrant service:
1) Kelly L. Johnson, 39, of Ashland for Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Cocaine, Possession of Heroin and Tampering with Evidence.
2) Vincent D. Ajian, 24, of Mansfield for Tampering with Evidence.
3) Jonathan G. Ransom, 35, of Columbus for Complicity to Money Laundering.
4) Shasta A. Harrington, 36, of Columbus for Complicity to Money Laundering.
5) Burton L Hester, 43, of Worthington for Tampering with Evidence.
6) Robert C. France, 22, Mansfield for a bond revocation relating to a prior Possession of Cocaine charge out of the Ashland Common Pleas Court.
7) Lauren E. Andress, 27, of Ashland for Obstructing Official Business.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol and the Ashland County Child Protective Services also assisted with the investigation.
With the help of the public, law enforcement put a large dent in the local drug trade with this case. The estimated street value of the confiscated narcotics is approximately $150,000.
Anyone having information about suspected drug abuse is encouraged to contact the Ashland Police Division at 419-289-3639, or leave a message on the Drug Tip Line at 419-289-8666.
