JACKSON COUNTY, Ohio — A suspected drug trafficker is behind bars after a search warrant was executed on his residence.
According to the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, 49-year-old Freddie Mathews of Wellston was arrested after a search warrant was executed on his North Illinois Avenue home.
Officials say the search warrant was part of an ongoing investigation that showed Mathews was involved in the sale of fentanyl. Fentanyl is a dangerous synthetic opiate. State officials say fentanyl is the leading cause of drug overdose deaths in Ohio.
During the search, deputies say needles, drug trafficking paraphernalia, cash, and a 9mm handgun were found. Reports say a 2005 Ford Mustang was also seized by law enforcement during the raid.
Mathews was arrested and charged with felony drug trafficking. He is currently being held at the Jackson County Correctional Facility.
Additional charges in this case are pending, according to the Jackson County Prosecutors Office.