NICHOLASVILLE, Ky. (LEX 18) — A joint operation involving the Nicholasville Police Department Drug Enforcement Unit and DEA agents resulted in the seizure of 47 kilograms of cocaine valued at more than $2 million.
The department reported that four people now face federal prosecution following the overnight arrests and searches.
Investigators took couriers into custody near Man O’ War Boulevard and Boston Road in Lexington. Authorities also executed a search warrant at the Hampton Inn on East Brannon Road in Nicholasville.
During the operation, law enforcement recovered the cocaine, $15,000, and a firearm, according to the department.
The arrests were the product of an extensive investigation requiring months of surveillance and intelligence gathering. The efforts focused on a fentanyl and cocaine trafficking organization emanating from Mexico, the department reported.
A citation reported that authorities arrested 34-year-old Marion Pinder on April 20 at the intersection of Man O' War Boulevard and Boston Road in Lexington.
Pinder faces a charge of first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance for four or more grams of cocaine.
According to the arrest citation, the investigation was a joint effort between state and federal law enforcement agencies. During the investigation, authorities seized more than 40 kilograms of cocaine.
The investigation is ongoing.
