Cocaine, Fentanyl and Shotgun Seized in Rich Square Drug Raid
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RICH SQUARE — A months-long narcotics investigation led to the seizure of cocaine, fentanyl, a firearm and cash during the execution of a search warrant at a Rich Square residence, according to the Northampton County Sheriff’s Office.
On Tuesday, September 22, members of the Northampton County Sheriff’s Office, assisted by Rich Square Police Chief W. Smith, executed a narcotics search warrant at a residence in the 600 block of West Jackson Street.
The Sheriff’s Office said the warrant followed a multi-month investigation led by Capt. W. Phelps and Sgt. J. Velez. Investigators identified 34-year-old Marqual Damont Whitaker of Rich Square as the target of the investigation.
During the search, investigators reported seizing approximately 34 grams of cocaine and 4.70 grams of fentanyl.
Authorities also seized drug paraphernalia, including a digital scale and packaging materials, along with two cell phones, a shotgun and an undisclosed amount of U.S. currency.
Whitaker was arrested and charged with:
- Felony trafficking in cocaine
- Felony trafficking in opium or heroin
- Felony possession with intent to sell or deliver cocaine
- Felony possession with intent to manufacture, sell or deliver heroin
- Felony possession of cocaine
- Felony possession of fentanyl
- Two counts of felony maintaining a vehicle, dwelling or place for controlled substances
- Misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia
Whitaker did not receive a bond due to the Pretrial Integrity Act, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
Sheriff Jack Smith praised the officers involved in the investigation, citing their professionalism, dedication and teamwork from the investigative stage through execution of the search warrant.
Smith also pointed to the dangers associated with illicit drugs, including overdose, addiction, poisoning and other serious health consequences, and said reducing the availability of illegal drugs helps reduce harm within the community.
Northampton County Sheriff’s Office personnel participating in the operation included Capt. W. Phelps, Lt. M. Deloatch, Sgt. J. Velez, Sgt. W. Killian, Deputy J. Johnson and Deputy M. Kellett.
All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
