Four people have been arrested and a significant stash of illegal drugs, cash, and firearms seized following a major drug and weapons bust in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. This comes after a months-long investigation that led authorities to search two homes in Oshkosh, with further operations extending to Milwaukee.
The operation, coordinated by the Oshkosh Police Department in conjunction with the Lake Winnebago Area Metropolitan Enforcement Group (MEG Unit), resulted in the arrest of four individuals and the confiscation of meth, fentanyl, cocaine, MDMA, marijuana, firearms, and thousands of dollars in cash.
Arrests and Charges
All four arrested individuals are residents of Oshkosh, ranging in age from 35 to 44. Each faces a range of serious charges tied to drug trafficking and weapon possession.
- A 35-year-old suspect was arrested for maintaining a drug trafficking place. This charge is commonly filed when a residence or property is knowingly used to sell or manufacture controlled substances.
- A 40-year-old was taken into custody due to an active warrant through probation and parole.
- A 41-year-old suspect was charged with possession of methamphetamine and also held on a warrant from probation and parole.
- The most serious charges were filed against a 44-year-old, who now faces:
- Possession with intent to deliver cocaine
- Maintaining a drug trafficking place
- Manufacture/delivery of methamphetamine
The charges indicate that this individual was likely a key player in the operation, with evidence suggesting an intent to distribute large quantities of controlled substances in the area.
Drugs, Weapons, and Cash Seized
During the searches of the Oshkosh residences, authorities uncovered a substantial amount of illegal substances and weapons. Items seized include:
- 1.58 pounds of methamphetamine
- 117.1 grams of cocaine
- 23.1 grams of fentanyl
- 2.7 grams of MDMA
- 40 grams of marijuana
- Three handguns
- Approximately $5,000 in cash
The large quantity of drugs and the presence of multiple firearms underscore the dangerous nature of the operation. Fentanyl, in particular, is known for its potency and connection to overdose deaths across the U.S. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), fentanyl is a major contributor to the ongoing opioid epidemic.
Expansion of the Investigation to Milwaukee
Further investigations led officers to execute additional search warrants in Milwaukee, where two residences linked to the 35-year-old suspect were searched. These searches were carried out in coordination with the Milwaukee Police Department.
Although no new arrests were reported in Milwaukee at the time of the press release, authorities have not ruled out further charges or arrests pending ongoing investigation.
Law Enforcement Collaboration
This multi-jurisdictional investigation highlights the collaboration between multiple law enforcement agencies including:
- Oshkosh Police Department
- Milwaukee Police Department
- Lake Winnebago Area MEG Unit
The MEG Unit, a regional drug enforcement team, plays a crucial role in tackling narcotics distribution and trafficking in Wisconsin. More information on the MEG Unit’s work can be found on the Wisconsin Department of Justice (DOJ) website.
Authorities have confirmed that the case is still active, and investigations are ongoing. They are also urging the public to report any suspicious activity, especially involving drug use or trafficking, through anonymous tip lines or by contacting local police departments.
