A joint effort between local law enforcement and the Southern Ohio Organized and Major Crimes Task Force led to the arrest of a Portsmouth man on drug trafficking charges.
On Tuesday, March 19th, New Boston Police responded to a report of a man passed out behind the wheel of a vehicle at a location on Gallia Street. Task Force Agents joined the investigation upon arrival and conducted a search of the vehicle.
The search yielded a significant amount of suspected narcotics, including approximately 121 grams of fentanyl and 37 grams of cocaine. Additionally, officers seized Alprazolam pills, a 9mm handgun, drug paraphernalia, and nearly $10,000 in cash. The estimated street value of the drugs is reported to be over $16,000.
The suspect, identified as Robert E. Castle of Portsmouth, was arrested and charged with possession and trafficking of cocaine and fentanyl, as well as weapons under disability. He was arraigned in Portsmouth Municipal Court on March 20th with bail set at $215,000.
Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding drug activity to contact the Organized & Major Crimes Task Force tip line at (740) 354-5656 or via email at [email protected]. All tips are guaranteed confidential and anonymous.
