Oconto County drug, traffic sweep results in eight arrests, numerous citations

Authorities made 172 traffic stops in one day

Eight arrests and a number of other referrals were made March 26 during a special criminal interdiction operation aimed at reducing drug activity and other criminal violations within Oconto County.

According to a news release from Sheriff Todd Skarban, the operation focused on the cities of Oconto Falls, Gillett and Oconto, along with the towns of Stiles, Oconto Falls, Morgan, Gillett and Underhill, with the assistance of several agencies.

As a result of this operation, 172 traffic stops were conducted with 183 warnings issued and 54 citations issued. Further, there were 41 K-9 deployments with 25 positive K-9 indications and 16 negative K-9 indications.

The arrests were for possession of a Schedule II narcotic, fleeing an officer, possession of methamphetamine, recklessly endangering safety, possession of THC, operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated and bail jumping. One person was apprehended for a probation violation.

The citations, arrests and criminal referrals are being prosecuted by the Oconto County District Attorney’s Office.

The sheriff’s office was assisted by the following agencies in partnership with the Northeast Tri-County Drug Enforcement Group: the Oconto, Gillett, Lena and Oconto Falls police departments; sheriff’s offices from Shawano, Marinette, Forest, Florence and Menominee counties in Wisconsin; the Menominee County, Michigan, Sheriff’s Office; and the Wisconsin State Patrol.

“The Oconto County Sheriff’s Office is committed to promoting a safe, healthy, and drug free community. We ask for your assistance in reporting any tips on the illegal sales and distribution of narcotics within our communities,” Skarban said. “Help us pursue those who traffic these dangerous drugs. You may report this activity by calling 920-834-6900 and remain anonymous.”

The sheriff said his department also wants anyone who is struggling with addiction to seek help and begin recovery, and he recommended that residents of Oconto County call 920-834-7000 for information. Residents of other counties may call the county Human Services office or contact Wisconsin Narcotics Anonymous at 800-240-0276 or www.wisconsinna.org.