Elyria, Ohio — A major drug raid in Elyria has led to the arrest of three individuals after officers discovered several types of illegal substances inside a home located near a preschool, according to the Elyria Police Department.
Police Raid Targets Home Near Preschool
Authorities said the raid occurred on Thursday, following an ongoing drug trafficking investigation that focused on a residence on Hodge Court. The location’s proximity to a preschool heightened community concern as police moved in to execute a search warrant.
Inside the home, investigators reportedly uncovered four types of illegal drugs — including heroin, fentanyl, methamphetamine, and Xanax. Officers also found drug paraphernalia and a large amount of cash, which police believe were connected to drug sales.
Three Suspects Arrested During Operation
The Elyria Police Department identified the suspects as Tyrell Hicks (32), Carla Polk (32), and Lauren Wood (23). All three were taken into custody and transported to the Lorain County Jail.
Investigators noted that each of the suspects was already wanted by other departments before Thursday’s bust, suggesting their involvement in multiple ongoing investigations across the region.
“These arrests are a direct result of consistent investigative work and cooperation between local agencies,” said an Elyria police spokesperson. “The fact that this activity was happening so close to a preschool makes it all the more troubling.”
Drugs, Paraphernalia, and Cash Seized
Police confirmed that in addition to narcotics, officers recovered drug paraphernalia commonly used in the preparation and sale of narcotics. The cash seized from the property is being held as evidence, pending further investigation.
Authorities are still determining the total street value of the drugs but stated that the combination of heroin and fentanyl makes the seizure particularly concerning due to the high risk of overdose associated with both substances.
Ongoing Investigation and Community Safety
All three suspects now face multiple drug-related charges, including possession and trafficking of narcotics. The Elyria Police Department emphasized that the investigation remains active, and additional arrests could follow as detectives continue to trace the source and distribution network of the seized drugs.
Law enforcement officials also expressed relief that no children or staff from the nearby preschool were affected by the raid. “We take community safety seriously, especially in areas close to schools and child care facilities,” said the department’s statement.
What are your thoughts on this latest drug bust near a preschool in Elyria? Do you think local authorities are doing enough to combat drug activity in residential neighborhoods?
Share your thoughts in the comments below.
