The Ohio State Highway Patrol has increased the number of drug arrests in the state through June.
In the first six months of 2014, troopers made 5,652 total drug arrests, representing a 19-percent
increase compared to 2013, and a 44-percent increase compared to the previous three-year average.
A total of 28 felony drug cases were conducted in Wood County by troopers during that period. Lucas
County had 39 such cases; of the surrounding Northwest Ohio counties, only Hancock County had similar
numbers, with 20 cases.
Montgomery County had the most felony drug cases in the state, with 104.
"Every day our troopers are out on the roadways arresting felons and removing drugs from our
communities," said Colonel Paul A. Pride, patrol superintendent. "By being observant and
spotting criminal indicators during traffic stops, troopers continue to contribute to a safer Ohio and
improve the quality of life here in our state."
Troopers made several of the largest drug seizures in OSHP history in the last six months. A traffic stop
in Preble County led to the second largest marijuana seizure on record with 2,330 pounds, worth an
estimated $11.6 million. Troopers seized the third largest amount of prescription pills in Allen County
and the second largest amount of non-prescription pills in Hancock County.
Motorists are reminded that public participation is critical to highway safety. Call #677 to report
impaired drivers or drug activity.