|
PHOTO: provided by Elkhart Co. prosecutor's office (June 15, 2012) |
ELKHART – An Elkhart man got lots of heat from the ICE team in Elkhart.
The Elkhart County Interdiction & Covert Enforcement Unit (ICE), with the help of the county Sheriff’s Department Emergency Services Unit, served a search warrant at 1429 Indiana Avenue and found over 120 pounds of alleged marijuana, 6 guns and about $23,260 in cash.
It's part of an ICE investigation into the distribution of marijuana in the Elkhart area.
32-year-old Anthony Mendez faces up to 28 years in prison and a $20,000 fine after being charged with a serious violent felony possession of a firearm and possession of marijuana with intent to deliver.
“I have heard some say that marijuana is a harmless vice that should not garner much law enforcement attention given the existence of more serious drugs such as methamphetamine,” said Prosecuting Attorney Curtis Hill, Jr. “Marijuana remains the gateway drug that begins every drug addict’s journey leading to incredibly horrible consequences for many."
“120 pounds of alleged marijuana along with multiple firearms and significant amounts of cash in one location suggests a thriving marijuana market within the city of Elkhart that requires law enforcement attention,” said Hill.
Hill says the latest case is an ongoing investigation and additional arrests are expected.
If you have more information about this or any case, Hill asks you to please contact the Elkhart County ICE Unit at 294-DRUG (3784).
