KHN – Manitowoc County authorities said two persons were detained after a three-month investigation for getting and distributing “large quantities” of cocaine.
According to a press statement from the Manitowoc County Sheriff’s Office, Eric Neal and Jessica Hayes of Manitowoc were arrested on February 16 on charges of possessing cocaine with intent to deliver.
The arrests were made after a three-month collaborative investigation by the Manitowoc County Metro Drug Unit and the Drug Enforcement Administration (Green Bay).
Officials say they obtained evidence that both suspects were getting and distributing considerable amounts of cocaine in Manitowoc.
The Wisconsin State Patrol, the Metro Drug Unit, and the Manitowoc County Sheriff’s Office performed a coordinated traffic stop on Interstate 43 in Manitowoc County on February 16.
Following the traffic stop, investigators discovered and seized one kilogram of cocaine from the car Neal and Hayes were driving.
A search warrant was then executed at the two suspects’ house, resulting in the discovery and seizure of additional amounts of cocaine, marijuana, drug paraphernalia, and cash suspected to be from the sale of drugs.
Neal and Hayes are now being imprisoned in the Manitowoc County Jail on the following allegations:
- Cocaine distribution, possession of cocaine with the intent to deliver
- Possession of marijuana
- Keeper of a Drug House, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
- Child Neglect (Exposure to Drug Distribution)
- Repeated drug offense
On February 17, both suspects appeared in court and each received a $50,000 cash bail. Neal and Hayes are scheduled to appear in court at 1:30 p.m. on Monday, February 24.
There is currently no more information available. Local Five will update this story if and when further information becomes available.