Grand Island, Nebraska – Three Grand Island men have been charged following a drug-related incident in which officers said two suspects threw drugs from a vehicle while fleeing law enforcement, authorities reported.
Suspects and Charges
Edwin Cruz-Aguilera, 22, and Alejandro Jacobo-Martinez, 22, are both charged in Hall County Court with:
- Distribution of a controlled substance in a school zone
- Possession of a deadly weapon in the commission of a felony
- Tampering with physical evidence
A third man, Marciano Davis, 22, faces charges including:
- Distribution of a controlled substance in a school zone
- Distribution of a controlled substance
- Possession of a controlled substance
Police Surveillance and Vehicle Chase
According to an arrest affidavit, the incident began on December 23 when Grand Island Police Department (GIPD) observed a drug transaction at a home on Charles Street. Officers reported seeing three individuals arrive in a Ford Explorer, remove multiple duffel bags from the vehicle, and begin a drug distribution operation.
When police attempted to follow the vehicle, driven by Cruz-Aguilera, the driver reportedly sped recklessly, failed to stop at a stop sign, and navigated through an alley. During the chase, Cruz-Aguilera and Jacobo-Martinez allegedly threw three of four duffel bags from the vehicle, which were later recovered.
Drug Seizure
The recovered duffel bags contained a large quantity of THC vape devices and marijuana, totaling 786 THC vape cartridges. The fourth bag, recovered when the vehicle was stopped near CHI Health-St. Francis, also contained additional THC products and a handgun.
During his arrest, Jacobo-Martinez reportedly had $2,100 in drug money in his front pocket.
Connection to Third Suspect
Around the same time, GIPD stopped Marciano Davis in a separate vehicle for a traffic violation. Officers determined that Davis was the third individual involved in the drug transaction. A search warrant at his home uncovered:
- Half a pound of marijuana
- Additional THC vape devices and THC wax
- Cocaine
- Digital scales, packing materials, and other drug paraphernalia
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities continue to investigate the case as it moves through Hall County Court. Officials emphasized the seriousness of drug distribution in school zones and the dangers posed by illegal narcotics and firearms in the community.
What measures can communities take to combat illegal drug distribution near schools? How can residents help prevent drug-related crimes in their neighborhoods? Share your thoughts and safety tips in the comments below to help raise awareness and protect Grand Island families.
