Wellsville, OH — On Tuesday, November 25, 2025, law enforcement authorities carried out a significant operation at a residential property in Wellsville, Ohio, uncovering a cache of illegal narcotics and cash linked to suspected drug trafficking. The operation was coordinated by Sheriff Brian McLaughlin and the Columbiana County Drug Task Force (CCDTF) in partnership with the Wellsville Police Department.
The raid, which took place at 507 15th Street, involved carefully executed planning and collaboration among multiple agencies to ensure the safety of officers and civilians. The mission led to the detention of four individuals inside the home, highlighting ongoing concerns about drug activity in Columbiana County.
Individuals Found at the Scene
Upon executing the search warrant, law enforcement encountered Ramel Shephard, Destiny Earich, Taylor Thrasher, and Tysin Gordon inside the residence. Of the four, Taylor Thrasher was taken into custody immediately due to an outstanding warrant. The remaining individuals were questioned at the scene as authorities assessed their involvement with the seized narcotics.
Seizure of Drugs and Evidence
During the operation, authorities recovered substantial quantities of suspected illegal drugs, all packaged for potential resale. Items seized included:
- 14 grams of suspected cocaine
- 15.5 grams of suspected crack cocaine
- 2 grams of suspected fentanyl
- $880 in cash
In addition to the narcotics, officers found paraphernalia consistent with drug trafficking, including packaging materials, scales, and other items commonly used in the distribution of illegal substances, as per WTRF.
According to law enforcement, the volume and packaging of these substances indicate that the property was being actively used as a distribution point.
Multi-Agency Collaboration Strengthens Investigation
The CCDTF emphasized the importance of inter-agency cooperation in combating the growing issue of drug trafficking in Wellsville and surrounding communities. Agencies that assisted in this operation included:
- Columbiana County Sheriff’s Office
- Columbiana County Prosecutor’s Office
- Salem Police Department
- East Liverpool Police Department
- Lisbon Police Department
- Columbiana Police Department
- Liverpool Township Police Department
- Wellsville Police Department
- Ohio Adult Parole
This combined effort allowed law enforcement to execute the raid effectively, secure the scene, and ensure the safe detention of suspects while preserving critical evidence for the ongoing investigation.
Investigation Continues
Authorities are continuing to investigate the origin and distribution network associated with the seized drugs. Detectives are reviewing evidence collected from the home, including packaging materials, cash, and digital records, to determine whether additional individuals or locations are involved in illegal narcotics activity in the area.
Sheriff Brian McLaughlin stressed the importance of community vigilance and encouraged residents to report suspicious activity. “Operations like this demonstrate that drug trafficking will not be tolerated in Columbiana County. Our focus remains on protecting the community and holding those responsible accountable,” he said.
Next Steps in Legal Proceedings
Charges against Ramel Shephard, Destiny Earich, Taylor Thrasher, and Tysin Gordon are expected to develop as the investigation progresses. Officials are also examining financial and digital evidence to identify possible accomplices and further connections to drug trafficking networks in Columbiana County.
How concerned are you about drug activity in Wellsville and surrounding areas?
What measures should law enforcement and the community take to reduce drug trafficking and related crime? Share your opinions, advice, or questions in the comments below to help keep the conversation going.
