Drug Investigation Leads to Seizure of Crystal Meth, Cash and Three Arrests

The search led to the discovery of approximately 3 ounces of crystal methamphetamine, marijuana, illegal prescription medications, a firearm and thousands in cash

Photo courtesy: Eugene Police

(EUGENE) - Three people are being charged with drug-related crimes following the execution of a search warrant in the Eugene area. Oregon State Police troopers were assisted during the search warrant execution by OSP SWAT team and OSP detectives of the Governor's Methamphetamine Initiative Team.

Following observations and traffic-related stops during the last six months of individuals believed to be associated with suspected narcotics activity, a search warrant was executed Tuesday at approximately 5:00 AM at "Goshen Sales" located at 85959 Highway 99. OSP troopers, SWAT team members and MIT narcotics detectives secured the approximately one-acre property that consisted of shops, travel trailers, campers, numerous outbuildings and vehicles.

The search led to the discovery of approximately 3 ounces of crystal methamphetamine, marijuana, illegal prescription medications, a firearm, over $3,300 cash, and additional evidence related to manufacturing and delivery of a controlled substance.

Three people were taken into custody and lodged or cited on the following charges:

48-year old Byron Eugene Kelso Jr. of Eugene, was lodged in Lane County Jail for Unlawful Delivery of a Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance, and Felon in Possession of a Firearm.

51-year old John Charles Farrell of Eugene, was lodged in the Lane County Jail for Frequenting a Place Where Controlled Substances are Used. He was released early Tuesday afternoon.

35-year old Nathan Duanne Claasen of Eugene, was cited and released for Frequenting a Place Where Controlled Substances are Used.

The Oregon State Police Methamphetamine Initiative Team was created as the result of the Governor's Meth Task Force and Legislative recommendations to address the growing Methamphetamine epidemic. The MIT team consists of one sergeant and seven detectives strategically located to investigate and assist in drug-related investigations with federal, state and local law enforcement agencies.