Metropolis Man Charged With Drug Trafficking

The McCracken County Sheriff's Department Drug Division received information several weeks ago alleging a Metropolis man to be involved in Marijuana trafficking. Detectives began a series of undercover operations and identified the man that originally was only known as "Metro" to be Christopher E. Campbell of Ferry Street in Metropolis.

The investigation revealed that Campbell had been purchasing Marijuana from the Paducah area for the past several months. Detectives with the assistance of the Paducah Police Department DAVE Unit conducted a covert operation at an area motel where prior arrangements had been made with Campbell to purchase approximately 1/2 pound of Marijuana from under cover officers. Campbell was observed arriving in the parking lot of the motel by the surveillance team at approximately 20:25 on October 9, 2008, in his 2000 Lincoln LS passenger car. Surveillance teams reported that it appeared Campbell was scoping out the area prior to parking on the North side of the motel. Eventually Campbell entered the motel room that had been previously wired with audio and video tape by detectives. After an approximate 1/2 pound Marijuana transaction had been completed by Campbell via an undercover officer detectives entered the room and effected an arrest without incident.

Campbell's 2000 Lincoln was seized along with an undisclosed amount of US currency, over 8 ounces of processed Marijuana, and a large fixed blade knife that was concealed on Campbell's person and located at the time of his arrest. Campbell later told detectives that the knife was carried as a source of protection.

Computer records revealed that Campbell was operating on a suspended license. Campbell was arrested and transported to the McCracken County Regional Jail.

ARRESTED: Campbell, Christopher E. 24 years of age

Of Ferry Street In Metropolis

CHARGES: Trafficking In Marijuana Over 8 Ounces

Carrying A Concealed Deadly Weapon

Operating On A Suspended License

McCracken County authorities were also assisted by detectives with the Southern Illinois Drug Task Force. On going investigations in both Kentucky and Illinois are ensuing.

Following Campbell's arrest Illinois authorities with the Metropolis Police Department conducted a follow up investigation at Campbell's residence. A search revealed 4 Marijuana plants inside the home along with additional processed Marijuana, scales, baggies, several items of drug paraphernalia and fertilizer. Charges in Illinois are pending.

"This case is a prime example of how communication and team work among multiple agencies working together for one common goal promotes the most thorough investigations. Excluding teamwork in this case would have resulted in illegal drugs going undetected." Det. Sgt. Matt Carter

End Of Release

Det. Sgt. Matt Carter

McCracken County Sheriff Department Drug Division