Multiple search warrants served as a result of Wheeler Mission Overdoses

INDIANAPOLIS – Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) Downtown Narcotics detectives and Flex Team officers executed three search warrants which led to the confiscation of 5 handguns, nearly 10 pounds of synthetic marijuana, over $5,000 in cash, several drug paraphernalia items and four arrests. These arrests were as a direct result of an ongoing investigation of the Wheeler Mission overdoses that occurred on January 30, 2018.

On Thursday, February 22, 2018 the Downtown District Narcotics Unit Detectives, executed three separate search warrants just east of downtown.   The related investigations began after multiple people began overdosing on synthetic marijuana known as spice (street name Katie).  Dealers were mixing the synthetic marijuana with a chemical to increase the levels of intoxication, thus creating the health concern which harmed downtown residents and taxed public safety resources.  Detectives soon identified drug houses that were suspected in supplying lower level drug dealers victimizing the homeless population within the Downtown District.  Consequently, an emphasis was put on those choosing to deal the drug.

PD18019300, 02/22/2018 at 2:45 p.m., 500 block North Keystone Avenue.
Narcotic Detectives assisted Marion County Probation Officers who were monitoring Antonio Lamb (26).  When unlawful items were observed, detectives obtained a search warrant for the residence.  During the execution of the search warrant detectives seized a large plastic tub filled with an estimated 7 pounds of synthetic marijuana/spice, a separate bag of the drug, marijuana, and a loaded handgun. Mr. Lamb was arrested and charged with dealing of a synthetic drug, escape, possession of a synthetic drug, and possession of marijuana.

PD18019413, 02/22/2018 at 7 p.m., 300 block North Gladstone Avenue.
IMPD Swat Officers and Detectives executed a search warrant at 300 block N. Gladstone Ave at approximately 7 p.m.  During the search warrant detectives seized three plastic bags of synthetic marijuana/spice (1 ounce), two digital scales, and a stolen .45 caliber loaded handgun. During the course of this investigation, Shamar Brown (39) was arrested for an outstanding warrant for possession of marijuana.  Dominic Johnson (32) was arrested for an outstanding warrant for possession of an unlawful handgun charge.  This investigation continues.

PD18019477, 02/22/2018 at 9 p.m., 600 block North Oxford Street.

At approximately 8:45 p.m., IMPD Swat Officers executed search warrant at 600 block of North Oxford Street.  Once inside the house, detectives seized a duffle bag containing large bags of synthetic marijuana/spice, a loaded handgun, an electronic scale and an unknown chemical used to mix with the spice to increase the intoxication levels.  As detectives furthered their search, they seized additional baggies of synthetic marijuana/spice, several electronic scales, controlled pills, two more loaded handguns, and $5,148.00 cash.  In all, detectives seized nearly three pounds of synthetic marijuana/spice during the search warrant.  Detectives arrested and charged Chester Irons (26) for unlawful handgun possession, dealing of a synthetic drug, and possession of a synthetic drug.

Day/Tact and Late/Tact Bike Units assisted our Narcotic Detectives during these successful investigations.  Their efforts are truly making the Downtown District a safer place for all.

The IMPD continues to fight illegal drug possession and unlawful gun possession.  The IMPD has and will always place the safety of all citizens of Indianapolis as the top priority.  The IMPD will put forth all of the available resources to identify and arrest those responsible for illegal drug possession, dealing, and illegal handgun possession.  This was a great example of the wonderful teamwork within the IMPD that happens daily.  The IMPD will continue to work with the community to make Indianapolis a safer place for all citizens throughout the city!

IMPD continues to urge anyone with information to call Crime Stoppers of Central Indiana at 317.262.8477 or (TIPS). Citizens can also download the mobile P3tips app for Apple or Android phones to submit a mobile tip, or go to www.CrimeTips.org to submit a web tip. You will remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $1000 if the information leads to a felony arrest.  Only tips submitted directly and anonymously to Crime Stoppers are eligible for these cash rewards.