The Oshkosh Police Department shattered records Thursday with its largest single-day drug bust in history, seizing more narcotics and cash than ever before.
Chief Dean Smith, a veteran of over 36 years, called it a landmark day as his team confiscated more than a kilogram of cocaine, seven pounds of marijuana, and $330,000 in cash from two city homes.
The dual raids underscore an intensifying battle against drug networks operating in Wisconsin’s Fox Valley.
Thursday morning began with officers sweeping a property on Lombard Avenue, where they unearthed 30 grams of cocaine, 50 grams of marijuana, and $3,000.
By evening, the scene shifted to Mt. Vernon Street, where a trove awaited: 7.5 pounds of marijuana, 1,000 THC cartridges, and an astonishing kilogram of cocaine.
Three vehicles linked to the drug trade were also confiscated.
Authorities have charged a 51-year-old man with multiple offenses, including possession with intent to deliver both cocaine and marijuana.
As the case moves to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for federal prosecution, neighbors like Stella Cole-Ellenbecker, who watched the raid unfold from her front yard, reflected on the uneasy undercurrents in their otherwise quiet neighborhood.
“It’s unsettling, especially with kids playing nearby,” Cole-Ellenbecker said, adding that such incidents are rare in her area.
Chief Smith, standing firm on his commitment to the community, emphasized the broader implications of the bust, stating that drugs like the seized 62 kilograms of cocaine not only fuel criminal networks but impact every family in Oshkosh.
“This is officers doing their job well,” he remarked, noting the increasing frequency of such investigations. “If they’re here, we’ll find them. We’re taking them off the streets.”
The Oshkosh Police Department encourages residents to report any suspicious activity. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Winnebago Crime Stoppers at (920) 231-8477 or online.
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