Bowling Green, KY — A routine surveillance operation in Bowling Green escalated into a significant drug bust this week, resulting in the arrest of four individuals following an investigation into suspected trafficking activity.
According to a uniform citation, Bowling Green–Warren County Drug Task Force detectives began surveillance on Tuesday afternoon at a residence located at 1570 Newton Ave. Authorities initiated the operation after receiving multiple community complaints reporting consistent behavior associated with drug trafficking at the home.
Investigators maintained observation throughout the day, watching several individuals come and go from the property in patterns consistent with narcotics distribution, according to the reports.
Traffic Stop Leads to Breakthrough
During surveillance, detectives conducted a traffic stop on one individual who had just left the residence. Officers reported locating methamphetamine in the subject’s possession, further substantiating concerns about illegal drug activity linked to the Newton Avenue home.
Police also observed two additional individuals exiting the residence shortly afterward. Their behavior contributed to the decision to secure a search warrant, allowing officers to enter the home and conduct a full investigation.
Large Drug and Weapons Seizure Inside Home
Once detectives executed the warrant, they discovered an assortment of illegal drugs and paraphernalia inside the residence. Authorities reported finding:
- A large quantity of methamphetamine
- Three handguns
- A dollar bill containing white powder
- A syringe, among other items consistent with drug use and distribution
Investigators stated that the combination of narcotics and firearms indicated a potentially active drug trafficking operation.
Four Suspects Arrested on Multiple Felony Charges
Following the search, four individuals were arrested and booked on a variety of drug-related and weapons charges.
1. Judah Haws, 22
Haws, 22, faces multiple charges, including:
- Failure to appear
- Trafficking in a controlled substance, 1st degree (≥ 2 grams methamphetamine)
- Possession of a controlled substance, 1st degree (fentanyl)
- Receiving stolen property (firearm)
- Tampering with physical evidence
2. Joseph Crawford McDorman, 37, of Portland, Tennessee
McDorman, 37, was charged with:
- Failure to or improper signal
- First-degree possession of a controlled substance
- Possession of marijuana
3. Jared Omar Pero, 45
Pero, 45, was charged with:
- Trafficking in a controlled substance, 1st degree (≥ 2 grams methamphetamine)
- First-degree possession of a controlled substance (fentanyl)
- Possession of a handgun by a convicted felon
- Receiving stolen property (firearm)
- Tampering with physical evidence
Authorities also confirmed that Pero had an outstanding arrest warrant issued in Simpson County, which was served during the booking process.
4. Leigha E. Rivas
Rivas faces similar charges, including:
- Trafficking in a controlled substance, 1st degree (≥ 2 grams methamphetamine)
- First-degree possession of a controlled substance (fentanyl)
- Receiving stolen property (firearm)
- Tampering with physical evidence
Investigation Continues
Law enforcement officials say the case remains active, with detectives continuing to follow leads, analyze evidence, and determine whether additional suspects played a role in the trafficking operation. More details may be released as the investigation progresses.
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