Three people arrested following drug bust at Ohio hotel

OHIO — Three people were arrested on multiple felony charges after a search warrant was executed at a hotel in Belmont County on March 1, according to the Belmont County Sheriff’s Office.

Authorities arrested Cortez Shipp, 33, of Canton, Ohio, also known as “Yo-Yo,” and Mikayla Fansler, 29, of Coshocton, Ohio, on charges including drug trafficking, drug possession, tampering with evidence, and manufacturing drugs.

During the arrest, officials say Shipp attempted to destroy evidence by flushing suspected drugs down a toilet.

Detectives recovered 189 grams of methamphetamine, 42 grams of fentanyl, 43 grams of crack cocaine, and $1,800 in suspected drug proceeds, along with items consistent with drug packaging and manufacturing.

While investigating, detectives also encountered Cryshawn Blackford, 30, of Canton, Ohio, known as “Tech 9,” in another room.

Officials say Blackford was a person of interest in the case and refused orders to comply, instead flushing drugs before leaving the room.

A female witness in the room cooperated with detectives and confirmed that Blackford attempted to dispose of evidence.

Blackford was arrested and booked into the Belmont County Jail on charges of tampering with evidence and obstructing official business.

The Belmont County Sheriff’s Office was assisted in the investigation by the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office.