Middletown drug investigation leads to 4 arrests; fifth suspect still at large

A Middletown police drug investigation led to four arrests in recent months, and a fifth suspect remains at large, police announced today.

Police Chief David Birk said the announcement of the arrests were not made until today because investigators were working to connect the suspects with other people and suppliers.

The investigation that centered in the 3400 block of Grand Avenue led to the seizure of hundreds of grams of fentanyl, about $130,000 and numerous vehicles.

The Middletown special operations unit served a search warrant about 3 p.m. on Dec. 3 at 3407 Grand Ave. Several items were found and two vehicles, a Lincoln Aviator and a Chevrolet Impala, which were towed and placed into police impound.

Police returned with special agents of the federal Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms to serve another search warrant on Jan. 28, when additional items were seized.

All five suspects are from Middletown. Nearly all of the charges that have been filed have been bound over to a Butler County grand jury. Those include:

• Chris Lewis, 31, engaging in a pattern of corrupt activity.

•Djuan Rice, 38, engaging in a pattern of corrupt activity and trafficking in fentanyl.

• Edward Lewis Jr., 55, permitting drug abuse.

• Natasha Walton, 32, engaging in a pattern of corrupt activity, possession of drugs and receiving proceeds subject to forfeiture

• Deante Lewis, 32, engaging in a pattern of corrupt activity and trafficking in fentanyl. He is still wanted by police. Information leading to his arrest could result in a cash reward.

Anyone with information about drug traffickers or wanted persons can call 513-425-7749.

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