Raid yields 22 grams of crack, 2 arrests

Hamilton police execute afternoon search at Linden Street home.

HAMILTON — Two Hamilton residents were arrested Thursday afternoon during a raid of their Linden Street home.

Police say around 2:45 p.m. officers searched the residence of Tia M. Crowden, 39, and Earnest L. Smiley, 57, both of 118 Linden St.

According to police reports, Crowden was in possession of more than 22 grams of crack cocaine that had been broken down into smaller bags.

Smiley was allegedly found with 1.8 grams of crack, $250 in cash and a digital scale.

Crowden was charged with second-degree felony possession of drugs crack and trafficking in drugs preparation for sale.

She also was arrested on seven warrants out of Hamilton Municipal Court, which included alleged violations of open container, driving under suspension, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Smiley was charged with fourth-degree felony possession of drugs, fifth-degree felony permitting drug abuse, and misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia.

According to court records, both suspects have prior drug charges. Crowden will be in court Tuesday.

Smiley, who is being held in Butler County Jail on $7,400 bond, has a preliminary hearing set for Friday.