News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 13, 2007
Contact: Joanna Zoltay
Number: 312-886-259

36 Arrested In Racine Area Drug Bust

JUL13 -- (Racine, WI) Gary G. Olenkiewicz, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Chicago Field Division announced the arrests of 36 individuals involved in a cocaine distribution ring operating out of the Racine area. The long term investigation began the fall of 2005 into the criminal activities of Joseph J. Stinson, the alleged leader of the organization, and culminated with the recent arrests of Stinson’s alleged co-conspirators.

The investigation into Stinson’s alleged drug trafficking activities in the Racine area was started by the Special Investigations Unit of the Racine Police Department. At the request of the Special Investigations Unit, it became a multi-agency Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation involving the Racine Police Department, the Racine County Metro Drug Unit and the DEA Milwaukee District Office. The investigation led to identifying Stinson’s alleged sources for cocaine and additional co-conspirators. Thirty-six defendants, including Stinson, are facing federal indictments for conspiracy to distribute cocaine. During the course of the investigation, approximately 23 search warrants resulted in the seizure of more than 5 kilograms cocaine, approximately $93,000.00 in U.S. currency, nine (9) firearms, and 24 vehicles.

“It’s a good day when drug law enforcement is able to dismantle a local drug trafficking organization like this and keep illegal narcotics off the streets in our communities,” stated Mr. Olenkiewicz. “The success of this investigation is due to the diligent team efforts of the Racine Police Department, the DEA, the Racine County Metro Drug Unit, and the United States Attorney’s Office.”

The case is being prosecuted by the Eastern District of Wisconsin United States Attorney’s Office.