LEWISTON — A joint operation involving the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency (MDEA) and the Lewiston Police Department culminated in a “High Risk” search warrant at a local residence linked to drug trafficking and recent firearm incidents.
For the last month, the MDEA Western District Task Force and Lewiston Police have been investigating suspected illegal drug activities at 100 College Street, Apartment 4.
The investigation intensified following a Jan. 23 traffic stop involving a vehicle associated with the address, during which an occupant fled on foot, discarding a stolen firearm from 2024.
Further concerns were raised early Sunday, Jan. 26, when Lewiston police responded to reports of gunfire at the same location, finding bullet holes in several apartments, including Apartment 4.
No injuries were reported, and firearm-related evidence was recovered.
To ensure community safety, authorities obtained a search warrant for the apartment.
The Maine State Police Tactical Team assisted in the operation, which resulted in eight individuals, ages 15 to 19, being detained.
The search yielded over three pounds of marijuana, roughly $3,400 in suspected drug money, and evidence of illegal drug trafficking, including ammunition and firearm accessories.
The probe also uncovered a previous shooting incident at the address on Jan. 15, which had not been reported to the police, involving bullets fired into an apartment living room.
While all detainees from the Jan. 26 search were interviewed and released, the investigation by MDEA and Lewiston police is ongoing, with charges expected.
The MDEA, along with federal and local law enforcement partners, remains committed to disrupting drug trafficking operations in Maine.
The public is encouraged to report any relevant information or to seek resources for substance use disorder through provided contact methods.