CHILLICOTHE, Ohio – A man is facing drug charges after being detained in the parking lot of Rural King in Chillicothe on November 1, 2024, as part of an ongoing investigation into drug trafficking in the area. Law enforcement seized over 3.7 pounds of marijuana, crack cocaine, fentanyl, and other drug-related items during the arrest.
According to reports from the Chillicothe Police Department, detectives had been investigating the suspect, identified as 31-year-old Reginald Ware, since September after receiving information that he was allegedly selling drugs in Chillicothe. Surveillance of Ware’s residence and vehicle, a gray Jeep Cherokee, led officers to observe him parked at Rural King on North Bridge Street on November 1.
The detective who was leading the investigation, called for uniformed officers to detain Ware as he exited his vehicle. Ware was taken into custody without incident, though officers had to remove his vehicle key from his hand forcibly. Officers detected the odor of raw marijuana coming from Ware’s vehicle and obtained probable cause to search it after Ware admitted to having “weed” in the car.
Evidence Recovered
The search revealed a staggering amount of drugs and paraphernalia packaged in ways consistent with drug distribution. Key items seized included:
- Marijuana: 1,665 grams (approximately 3.7 pounds)
- Crack Cocaine: 59 grams
- Fentanyl: 16 grams
- Various packaging, including pre-labeled cannabis flower packs, THC edibles, and vape cartridges.
- Drug paraphernalia, including a digital scale.
Additionally, hidden compartments in the vehicle, such as a loose driver-side window mechanism, were found to contain crack cocaine and fentanyl. The street value of the narcotics is estimated at $5,900 for the cocaine and $1,600 for the fentanyl.
Arrest and Pending Charges
Ware was arrested and transported to the Ross County Jail on charges of felony marijuana possession. His two cell phones, suspected of being used in drug transactions, were also seized. Additional charges for trafficking and possession of crack cocaine and fentanyl are pending based on lab results from the Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI).
Investigation Continues
Detectives believe the large quantities of drugs recovered, along with their packaging and the presence of multiple cell phones, indicate Ware was engaged in drug sales.
Further charges are expected following the lab analysis of the seized substances.