By Pat Culverhouse
Officers from multiple agencies shut down a major drug dealer’s operations early Tuesday morning, ending a lengthy investigation with the arrest of a 31-year-old Dixie Inn man.
Webster Parish Sheriff Jason Parker said Sheriff’s Office narcotics unit investigators along with officers from the Minden Police Department and the DEA Task Force arrested Jamal D. Bailey on warrants for distribution of illegal narcotics.
Bailey is charged with possession with intent to distribute CDS Sch. I (marijuana), possession with intent to distribute CDS Sch. II (methamphetamines) and illegal carrying of a weapon with controlled dangerous substance. Total bond on the charges has been set at $100,000.
“Our investigators began looking into Bailey’s alleged methamphetamine distribution enterprise and, with the assistance of other agencies, uncovered enough information to obtain warrants,” Parker said. “This is a major player that is now out of business.”
After serving warrants, agents reportedly seized approximately 401 grams of methamphetamine, 896 grams of marijuana and 448 grams of THC (cannabis) edibles. Agents also found two 9MM handguns equipped with extended magazines.
Head of the WPSO’s Criminal Investigation Division, Maj. Bobby I-go III, said the successful raid was the result of a united effort between law enforcement agencies.
“We have an outstanding relationship with the Minden Police Department and the DEA and that plays an important part in our investigations,” Igo said. “This kind of cooperation is very beneficial to the people of our towns and the parish.”
Igo said one of Webster Parish’s deputies, Sgt. Shawn Jenkins, is assigned to the DEA Task Force. His expertise plays a critical role in drug investigations, he said.
“Shawn is a valuable asset to us and to the DEA, and the people he serves,” Igo said.
Parker said Tuesday’s arrest will hopefully let the people of Webster Parish know investigators are constantly looking into reports of illegal activity.
“We want people who commit crimes to know that no matter how long it takes, we will bring you to justice,” he said. “There are no time limits on investigations and we intend to stay focused until we reach a successful conclusion. And we appreciate help and cooperation from the public.”
This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
