Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: TUESDAY, March 15, 1994 TAG: 9403150136
SECTION: VIRGINIA PAGE: C-3 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: LISA APPLEGATE STAFF WRITER
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
Lt. Dennis Mullins of the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries said the undercover work started as an investigation of wildlife violations.
"It began in the Plantation Road area, near Carvins Cove Dam . . . It led from one person to another, then just spread to their cronies," Mullins said.
His officers did not expect to find the extensive network of alleged drug distribution and firearm felonies, he said.
"We expected the game violations, but then it got into drugs. It seems illegal game and drugs go hand in hand."
Sheriff Reed Kelly said his office began investigating in January 1993 after receiving complaints from neighbors about suspected illegal activities.
Mullins said warrants were issued against 10 people Monday charging them with 60 felony and misdemeanor charges.
The seven arrested include: Plantation Road residents Dickie Baily, Gregory Wilson, David Hutton and Jeanne Donald; Dale Avenue residents William Wilcher and Shirley White; and Richard Via of Troutville.
Mullins said attempts were being made to serve additional warrants late Monday.
Mullins said the charges include 15 felony charges of possessing a gun after being convicted of a felony and possession, distribution, and selling of drugs.
The other misdemeanor charges are wildlife violations including hunting out of season, illegal possession of game and spotlighting.
"I'm not sure how many more arrests we'll make," Kelly said, "but I'm certain there will be more."
by CNB