Pubdate: Fri, 20 Jul 2001
Source: Detroit News (MI)
Copyright: 2001, The Detroit News
Contact:  http://www.detnews.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/126
Author: Katie Walton

POLICE, PUBLIC UNITE TO MAKE DRUG BUSTS

MT. CLEMENS - The Macomb County Enforcement Team (COMET) confiscated more 
than 225 pounds of marijuana in two separate busts this week, Macomb County 
Sheriff Mark Hackel announced Thursday.

On Monday night, COMET officers received a tip regarding a suspicious 
U-Haul truck parked near 8 Mile and Ryan roads, Hackel said.

Officers watched a man unloading packages. They investigated and say they 
found about $500,000 worth of marijuana. Suspects were being questioned, he 
said.

The second seizure took place at a Detroit home Tuesday night. Working with 
the Shelby Township police, the Macomb County Sheriff's Department found 
four pounds of marijuana and illegal rifles, shotguns and handguns, 
including one under the mattress of a child's bed, Hackel said. One of the 
weapons was stolen.

"When you deal with drugs, you deal with weapons," Hackel said. "It is part 
of the risk and danger involved with law enforcement."

Three Detroit residents were arrested in connection with the raid. Michelle 
Lee Rogers, 32, and Deontay Bynum, 17, were each arraigned Wednesday on one 
count of drug possession. Rudy Tarrell Rogers, 34, was arraigned on two 
counts of drug possession. All three posted bond and were released Wednesday.

The three may also face weapons charges, Hackel said.

Hackel said the seizures were possible because of cooperation between 
police forces and private citizens.

"We need to work together to do just this," he said. "To get this stuff off 
the street."
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MAP posted-by: Beth