(DAYTON, Ohio) — A significant drug bust has led to the seizure of 10 kilograms of cocaine and the arrest of a suspected drug trafficker, authorities announced today. The operation, conducted by the Miami Valley Major Drug Task Force, marks a successful end to a long-term narcotics investigation.
Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost and Montgomery County Sheriff Rob Streck revealed that Maurice Sallis, 46, was arrested in Dayton on January 9, 2025. Authorities found him in possession of a suitcase containing 10 kilograms (22 pounds) of cocaine, which has an estimated street value of nearly $1 million.
“Drug traffickers beware – Ohio is not a destination for your poison,” Yost stated. “Thanks to Sheriff Streck and our OOCIC task force, 22 pounds of cocaine will not wreak havoc in our communities.”
The Miami Valley Major Drug Task Force had been tracking individuals transporting narcotics across the country using public transportation. The investigation culminated in the arrest of Sallis, who is now facing potential federal drug trafficking charges.
Sheriff Streck praised the efforts of the task force, highlighting the importance of their work in protecting local communities. “Taking 10 kilos of cocaine off the streets is no small feat,” he said. “It’s thanks to the coordination and commitment of this task force that we can prevent these dangerous drugs from reaching our neighborhoods.”
The task force, led by the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office and organized under the Ohio Organized Crime Investigations Commission, includes personnel from local law enforcement agencies, the Ohio State Highway Patrol, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Montgomery County Prosecutor’s Office.
Homeland Security Investigations Detroit Special Agent in Charge Angie M. Salazar emphasized the role of collaborative law enforcement efforts in combating drug trafficking. “These partnerships continue to disrupt drug trafficking organizations and are important milestones in holding traffickers accountable,” Salazar said.
The investigation is ongoing, with additional details to be released as the case develops. Federal drug trafficking charges are expected to be filed in the coming weeks.
