Pubdate: Tue, 08 Nov 2005 Source: Medina County Gazette (OH) Copyright: 2005 Medina County Gazette Contact: http://www.medina-gazette.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/3851 Author: Denise Sullivan Note: MAP archives articles exactly as published, except that our editors may redact the names and addresses of accused persons who have not been convicted of a crime, if those named are not otherwise public figures or officials. TASK FORCE AGENT LAUDED FOR WORK IN DRUG BUST MEDINA - An agent with the Medina County Drug Task Force last week received a Special Award of Honor for participating in a three-year investigation called "Operation Dark Star." The award, given by the International Narcotic Enforcement Officers Association, is a result of the 30-count indictment naming 55 suspects in Ohio, Arizona and Florida, a press release stated. "It was a huge honor for the entire agency to be involved in a case spanning so many states to begin with, let alone to receive an international award," said award recipient Agent Smith, who refused to provide a first name, citing safety reasons. "We wouldn't have gotten this had we not worked together on the case." Each suspect was charged in April with conspiracy to distribute crystal methamphetamine, ecstasy and the date-rape drug, GHB (gamma hydroxy butyrate). The alleged "ringleaders" in Ohio were [names redacted]. The men reportedly received weekly shipments from suppliers in Phoenix and ran a network that distributed the drugs in Northeast and southern Ohio as well as Miami, the press release stated. Numerous transactions allegedly were conducted in a Medina County apartment, the release stated. County residents charged in the investigation were [names redacted]. At the time Operation Dark Star was completed, former Agent in Charge Fred Wolk said the Medina County Drug Task Force dedicated numerous resources to the investigation and much of the alleged activity took place in the county. The Summit County Drug Unit, Ohio Bureau of Criminal Identification and Investigation and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration also received the award. - --- MAP posted-by: Beth