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Four Arrested on Federal Drug Charges in Columbus, Ohio
COLUMBUS, Ohio – In a major blow to marijuana dealers, four defendants were arrested yesterday morning on charges related to running a marijuana ring between Tuscon, Ariz. and Columbus, Ohio.
Investigators have seized more than 2,000 pounds of marijuana and more than $1.2 million in cash in relation to the case.
The defendants, who were arrested yesterday, include:
- Damian Edwards, 38, of Columbus
- Hope Dawn Edwards, 34, of Columbus
- Theo Lavelle Smith, 33, of Columbus
- German Alfredo White, 53, of Jacksonville, Fla.
According to court documents, detectives with Columbus Police and the HIDTA Task Force began an investigation into a multi-kilogram marijuana drug ring in November 2015.
The investigation revealed that large shipments of marijuana were being imported into Columbus on a monthly basis by a male named ‘Lucky,’ later identified as Damian Edwards, a Jamaican native.
While conducting surveillance, law enforcement officials saw the defendants renting and driving large vehicles, including a U-Haul, Dodge Durango, and Landstar Ranger semi-tractor trailer, and meeting at locations near Polaris Shopping Place before following one another to a hotel nearby.
The defendants were each charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute marijuana, a crime punishable by a range of 10 years up to life in prison, and a $10 million fine.
Initial court appearances for the arrestees are scheduled this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Norah McCann King.
U.S. Attorney Stewart commended the cooperative investigation by the DEA and Columbus Division of Police, as well as Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael Hunter and David Bosley, who are prosecuting the case.
Charges contained in a complaint are allegations. All defendants should be presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.
Key Facts
- State: Ohio
- Category: Drug Trafficking
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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