Kalamazoo, MI: On July 23rd, investigators from the Kalamazoo Valley Enforcement Team arrested a 36-year-old Ohio man in Kalamazoo Township for drug and weapons related charges. This arrest was the result of a month long investigation into the trafficking of Crystal Methamphetamine into the County of Kalamazoo from California.
In early July, KVET investigators began receiving information that a 36-year-old Ohio man was transporting large amounts of Crystal Methamphetamine into the Kalamazoo area. Investigators were able to identify the suspect and launched an investigation. Investigators learned that the suspect was transporting approximately 5 pounds of Methamphetamine from California to an address in Kalamazoo Township. Investigators also learned that the suspect has an extensive criminal history, including several convictions for drugs and weapons related felonies.
Investigators conducted surveillance of the suspect and arrested him before he was able to deliver the Methamphetamine. During the arrest, the suspect was found to be in possession of a loaded handgun on his person. A search of the suspect’s vehicle resulted in the discovery of over 5 pounds of Crystal Methamphetamine, two additional handguns and a large amount of US Currency. The street value of the Crystal Methamphetamine is over $300,000.00. The suspect was arrested for Possession with Intent to Deliver Methamphetamine and several weapons related charges. The suspect was lodged at the Kalamazoo County Jail.
KVET investigators also worked with Ohio law enforcement officials during this investigation. Due to this investigation, a search warrant was executed on the suspect’s home in Ohio. This search warrant resulted in the seizure of additional large amounts of Crystal Methamphetamine, several guns and a large amount of US Currency.
The Kalamazoo County Prosecutor’s Office reviewed the case and authorized several felony charges including, Delivery of Methamphetamine, Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Felony Firearm, and Carrying a Concealed Weapon.
On Monday, July 25th, the suspect in this investigation, 36-year-old Buddy Randall Parker from Fairfield, Ohio was arraigned on these charges in Kalamazoo County District Court. A $2 million cash/surety bond was set for Parker who is currently being held in the Kalamazoo County Jail.
Anyone with information regarding illegal drugs or firearms activity is urged to contact KVET at 269-337-8880, or report an anonymous tip to Silent Observer at 269-343-2100 or www.kalamazoosilentobserver.com.
Date: 7/26/2016
Address: 150 E. Crosstown Pkwy., Suite A, Kalamazoo, MI 49001
Contact: Capt. David Boysen, Kalamazoo Valley Enforcement Team, 269-337-8880
