OHIO — A Cleveland man has been indicted following a months-long federal investigation into a large-scale drug trafficking operation in the area.
According to the U.S. Department of Justice, a grand jury charged 57-year-old Marcus Hopper with multiple drug offenses, including possession with intent to distribute cocaine, MDMA (ecstasy), and cocaine base, commonly known as crack.
Federal agents executed search warrants in February at two residences—one on Edgehill Road in Cleveland Heights and another on Penrose Avenue in East Cleveland—after what authorities described as an intensive, multi-state investigation.
Investigators said the locations were suspected of being used to support a large-scale drug trafficking operation throughout the Greater Cleveland area.
During the searches, agents seized more than 15 pounds of MDMA, nearly 12 pounds of cocaine, 21 grams of crack cocaine, and 10 grams of fentanyl. Authorities also reported finding bulk quantities of marijuana, more than $211,000 in cash, and equipment used to process drugs, including a cocaine brick press and several smaller presses.
The investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration.
If convicted, Hopper’s sentence will be determined based on factors including the nature of the offense, his role in the operation, and any prior criminal history.
