More than 50 people arrested following drug arrest operation in Ohio

OHIO — The U.S. Marshals Service announced the arrest of more than 50 individuals in Lake County and surrounding areas as part of “Operation Washout,” a coordinated effort targeting suspects involved in violent and drug-related crimes.

The operation, led by the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force in partnership with the Lake County Sheriff’s Office and local police departments, focused on individuals with “violent felony warrants” connected to “an illegal narcotic distribution or possession nexus.”

Over the course of six weeks, the operation led to the closure of 61 warrants. Charges against those arrested include drug trafficking, homicide, robbery, assault, and sex crimes.

“Outstanding and longstanding partnerships are what make operations such as this so successful,” U.S. Marshal Pete Elliott said in a statement.

“When agencies work towards the same goals, success like this is inevitable. The Lake County Sheriff’s Office, local police departments, and the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force are all committed to the safety of the communities we serve.”