Officials of the Panama City Police said a search warrant resulted in four arrests on Friday. The officials conducted the search at a residence in Panama City's Glenwood area after they developed a possible cause while on a narcotics investigation.

Based on the press release the authorities issued, the officers said they discovered, "370 grams of THC syrup, 181 grams of manufactured methamphetamine pills, 29 grams of crack cocaine, 25 grams of marijuana, nine grams of crystal methamphetamine and eight grams of cocaine HCI."

On top of the discoveries, the officers revealed they also seized $1,000 in cash, drug paraphernalia, counter-surveillance equipment, and two handguns.


The Arrested

The police arrested and charged 43-year-old Andre Evans with two counts of cocaine trafficking, illegal "use of a two-way communication device," retaining a "nuisance drug shelter," possession of marijuana with an intent to distribute, ownership of ammunition by a sentenced criminal, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of cocaine, and possession of a firearm, among others.

Also arrested was 57-year-old Frederick Middleton, who was also indicted with possession of both drug paraphernalia and crack cocaine.

The third of four arrests was 55-year-old Christopher Lawler. He was arrested and indicted with the principle of ownership of cocaine to distribute the illegal drug.

Finally, also arrested was 40-year-old Willie Cleveland, who, the officers said, was apprehended and charged with "trafficking methamphetamine of more than 28 grams," possession of THC concentrate, cocaine to distribute, less than 20 grams of marijuana and drug paraphernalia. 

According to the arresting officers, this is still an ongoing investigation, and they encourage everyone who has information to contact the police department of Panama city by dialing 850-872-3100. 

Report tips may also be anonymously reported through smartphone by simply downloading the "Panama City PD" app or Tip411. 


Drug Trafficking in Panama City

In Panama City, drug trafficking has historically been a widespread issue, which has prompted federal and state law enforcement agencies to become active in the region. 

Usual drug offenses in the Panama City comprise of "possession of a controlled substance," possession to distribute, manufacturing of drugs, attaining a prescription by deception and possession of drug equipment or paraphernalia.

Moreover, based on the statistics from the 2016 data of the Federal Bureau of Investigations and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, there were more than 110,000 total apprehensions for drug-related crimes in Florida.

Incidentally, the Florida Office of Drug Control approximates roughly $300 million are capitalized in drug control programs across the state every year.

Fines or punishments for the drug-related felony rely significantly on the drug type, the quantity, and if it is either being distributed or sold.

Finally, Florida categorizes drugs depending on the different "Schedules." This is a system which groups drugs depending on their abuse potential and acceptance for medical purpose.

For instance, "Schedule I drugs" primarily carry a stricter punishment than those that are in "Schedule II" or "Schedule III."


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