BREWER PD DRUG INVESTIGATION RESULTS IN ARREST OF OXYCONTIN TRAFFICKER

On December 9, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. Brewer Police Officers, with the assistance of the Federal DEA Task Force, executed a search warrant at the Elmwood Street residence of JOSHUA RUSSELL, age 23. Prior to the execution of the search warrant, Russell had been suspected of dealing narcotics. The resulting investigation led primary case officer Amy Nickerson to develop probable cause to obtain a search warrant for Russell’s home.

Officers seized 4000 milligrams of Oxycontin, approximately 12,500 in cash, drug paraphernalia, marijuana, as well as a loaded .357 magnum handgun located on Russell’s bed. Russell is currently being held at the Penobscot County Jail on a charge of Aggravated Trafficking in a Schedule “W” Drug (Class A). The charge was aggravated due to the amount of Oxycontin seized, the proximity of Russell’s home to a city park, and the fact that he was in possession of a firearm.

While officers were searching the premises, numerous individuals arrived at the residence with the intent of purchasing drugs. Additionally, several individuals were present when officers arrived to raid the home.

The following additional individuals were charged with possession of a Schedule “W” Drug as a result of this incident:

• Robert Maquillan, Jr., age 22, Brewer
• Nathan Ricker, age 19, Levant
• Elizabeth Williams, age 22, Hampden

Officer Nickerson was assisted by Detective Nelson Feero during the investigation. Officer Nickerson was assisted during the execution of the warrant by Lt. Chris Martin, Detective Nelson Feero, Task Force Agent Fred Luce, Officers Stephen Boyd, Liz Kelley, and Roger Hershey.