MERIDIAN, Miss. (Queen City Newsfeed) – A Meridian man faces multiple felony charges after authorities executed a search warrant at a local business Friday as part of an ongoing narcotics investigation.
The East Mississippi Drug Task Force, with assistance from the Lauderdale County SWAT Team, conducted the operation Feb. 27 at a business in the 3600 block of 8th Street in the City of Meridian.
During the search, agents reported seizing more than two ounces of methamphetamine, a large amount of U.S. currency and two firearms. Investigators also recovered several items believed to be stolen and possibly connected to other open investigations.
Authorities said multiple illegal gambling machines were discovered inside the business. The Mississippi Gaming Commission was notified and responded to assist with the seizure and destruction of the devices.
Samuel Allen was arrested and charged with two counts of sale of methamphetamine within 1,500 feet of a church (X2), with bond set at $75,000. He is also charged with trafficking methamphetamine within 1,500 feet of a church while in possession of a firearm, with bond set at $350,000, and felon in possession of a firearm, with bond set at $250,000.
Officials said the arrest stems from an ongoing investigation into illegal drug sales in the community. Authorities encourage anyone with information related to the case to contact the Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Department through its website or call Crime Stoppers at 855-485-8477.
The investigation remains active, and additional charges are expected. All individuals are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
