Commander Jay Salzer advised that on Sept 16th, 2019, the Central Minnesota Violent Offender Task Force concluded an investigation where individuals were suspected of transporting controlled substances from Chicago IL, to St. Cloud metro area for distribution purposes.
Investigators started purchasing methamphetamine and crack cocaine from Tito Marquel Smith, 40 from Waite Park Mn and Wendell NMN Jones, 58 from St. Cloud Mn. The investigation identified Smith, Jones and several other people that were suspected of driving to Chicago IL, purchasing controlled substances, and bringing them back to the St. Cloud metro area. Once back in the St. Cloud metro area, this group of individuals were suspected of distributing the controlled substances.
On Sept 16, 2019 Investigators from the Central Minnesota Violent Offender Task Force (CMVOTF) located Smith and Jones driving in a vehicle in the St. Cloud area. Investigators stopped the vehicle and arrested both Jones and Smith. Investigators executed a search warrant on the vehicle they were driving and located 403 ecstasy pills, 29.5 grams of heroin, 70 grams of suspected fentanyl, which is a synthetic opioid, and a loaded 9mm hand gun. Investigators from CMVOTF then executed 3 search warrants in St. Cloud and Waite Park relating to this investigation. During the search warrants two more handguns were located, one of which was stolen, along methamphetamine packaged for distribution. Both Jones and Smith were transported to Stearns County jail where they are being held on 1st degree sale of controlled substance and aggravated 1st degree possession of controlled substances with a firearm. This investigation continues and more arrests are expected.
Violent Offender Task Force was assisted by the St. Cloud Police Department. The Central Minnesota Violent Offender Task Force is comprised of Investigators from St. Cloud and Sartell, Police Departments and deputies from Stearns, Benton, Sherburne, Todd and Morrison Counties.
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