Police Operation in Columbus Nets Significant Drug and Firearms Seizure
On Thursday, June 27, 2024, the Columbus Police Department’s Special Operations Unit and S.W.A.T. Team conducted a search at a residence in the 400 block of Central Circle. This operation followed a lengthy narcotics investigation, resulting in the arrest of Towon Earl, 37. Law enforcement seized a significant amount of illegal substances and firearms from the location.
Items confiscated during the search included:
- 751.8 grams of methamphetamine valued at approximately $33,831
- 468.4 grams of marijuana valued at around $4,684
- 6.9 grams of ecstasy valued at about $35
- 22.7 grams of synthetic cannabinoids valued at approximately $139
- One hydrocodone pill valued at $5
- Firearms, including an Andro Corp Industries ACI-15 5.56mm AR pistol, a Sturm Ruger Mini 14 5.56mm rifle (modified to pistol grip, reported stolen), a Ruger 10/22 .22 rifle (modified to pistol grip, reported stolen), a Smith and Wesson .38 Special revolver (reported stolen), and pistols such as a Taurus G3C 9mm and a Jiminez JA Nine 9mm.
- $1,102.57 in cash
Earl faces multiple charges, including trafficking methamphetamine, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, possession of MDMA with intent to distribute, possession of synthetic cannabinoids with intent to distribute, possession of hydrocodone with intent to distribute, unlawful possession of firearms by a convicted felon (6 counts), possession of firearms during the commission of a crime (2 counts), receiving stolen firearms (3 counts), and possession of drug-related objects.
