UTICA, N.Y. — A coordinated multi-agency narcotics investigation led to a major bust Friday in Oneida County, resulting in the arrest of a New York Mills man and the seizure of more than $866,000 in cash along with substantial quantities of cocaine and methamphetamine.
Key Points
- Authorities seized 780 grams of cocaine and 475 grams of methamphetamine
- Over $866,000 in U.S. currency was recovered during the searches
- John Miller, 51, faces felony charges with more expected
The Utica Police Department’s Special Investigations Unit executed several search warrants April 4 in partnership with the department’s Crime Prevention and GIVE Units, the New York Mills Police Department, Oneida County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit, the New York State Police Violent Gang and Narcotics Enforcement Team, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
The operation targeted narcotics distribution and was carried out at a Clinton Street residence in New York Mills and a storage unit. Authorities discovered 780 grams of cocaine and 475 grams of methamphetamine during the search.
Miller charged, more counts anticipated
John Miller, 51, of New York Mills, was taken into custody and charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the first and second degrees. Police officials noted that “additional charges are likely as the case proceeds.”
Investigators also recovered over $866,000 in assorted U.S. currency, which was seized as evidence and is suspected to be linked to drug trafficking operations.
The bust is part of an ongoing effort by regional and federal law enforcement agencies to disrupt narcotics distribution networks operating in and around the Utica area.
Regional task force collaboration
Authorities emphasized the importance of inter-agency cooperation in carrying out complex drug investigations like this one. The involvement of federal, state, county, and local law enforcement was key to the success of the operation.
As of Saturday, Miller remained in custody pending further legal proceedings. Law enforcement officials did not release additional details regarding possible co-conspirators or the storage facility’s location, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation.