Multi-Jurisdictional Investigation Leads To Sizable Drug Bust In Wisconsin

Authorities across the country continue to battle drug use and distribution within their communities. While it may seem that it's impossible to win this battle, there are victories to celebrate that show progress can be made.

One such victory was announced this week by the Ashland County Sheriff's Office as a multi-jurisdictional investigation has led to the arrest for possession with the intent to deliver fentanyl.

Ashland authorities say the arrest marks a "significant victory" in their ongoing efforts to combat the distribution of dangerous drugs within the community.

What Is Fentanyl?

According to the DEA, fentanyl is a synthetic opioid typically used to treat patients with chronic severe pain or severe pain following surgery. Fentanyl is a Schedule II controlled substance that is similar to morphine but about 100 times more potent. Fentanyl has a legitimate medical use when used under the supervision of a licensed medical professional.

However, a deadly issue involves illicit fentanyl, primarily manufactured in foreign clandestine labs and smuggled into the United States through Mexico, being distributed across the country and sold on the illegal drug market.

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Furthermore, fentanyl is being mixed in with other illicit drugs to increase the potency of the drug, sold as powders and nasal sprays, and increasingly pressed into pills made to look like legitimate prescription opioids.

The DEA also warns that drug dealers are contaminating illegal drugs including heroin, methamphetamine, and cocaine with fentanyl because of its potency and low cost. This increases the likelihood of death for those who unwittingly use drugs that contain fentanyl.

Details Of Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Bust In Ashland, Wisconsin

The Ashland County Sheriff's Office had been collaborating with the Michigan State Police and Bayfield County Sheriff's Office, which ultimately led to the arrest of Charles Mathus, age 56, of Chicago, Illinois.

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Mathus was found in possession of 111 grams of Fentanyl with an estimated street value of $50,000. He was taken into custody on May 20th in the Township of Sanborn near the Bad River Casino and remains in the Ashland County Jail with a $50,000 cash bond.

The Ashland County Sheriff's Office says they remain committed to "upholding the law and ensuring the safety and security of our residents." They urge anyone with information regarding the distribution of dangerous drugs to come forward and assist in their ongoing efforts to combat this pressing issue.