Law Enforcement Agencies Collaborate to Bust Southern Oregon Drug Operation

Merlin, Oregon– In a coordinated effort involving multiple law enforcement agencies, a drug-related search warrant executed on Monday, February 5th, at approximately 4:00 pm in the 300 block of Colonial Drive in Merlin, Oregon, led to a significant bust. Members of the Rogue Area Drug Enforcement (RADE) team, alongside the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Medford, Grants Pass Police Department, Oregon State Police Explosive Unit, and Homeland Security, uncovered a cache of illicit substances and weapons.

The search revealed a disturbing inventory, including multiple ounces of methamphetamine, eight firearms (three of which were reported stolen), a substantial sum of US currency, and illegal explosives, including blasting caps and other high-grade explosives.

Suspect Michael Dills, allegedly linked to the seized contraband, was taken into custody and subsequently lodged at the Josephine County Jail. Dills faces charges of Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine. Authorities also announced their intention to pursue additional drug and gun-related charges against Dills, which will be referred to the Josephine County District Attorney’s Office for further legal action.

The success of this operation underscores the effectiveness of collaborative efforts between law enforcement agencies in combating drug trafficking and related criminal activities. The RADE team, a multi-jurisdictional narcotics task force, spearheaded the operation. Tasked with identifying, disrupting, and dismantling drug trafficking organizations at local, multi-state, and international levels, RADE employs an intelligence-driven, multi-agency, prosecutor-supported approach.

RADE operates under the Oregon-Idaho High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program, which receives sponsorship from the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP). Comprised of dedicated members from the Oregon State Police, Grants Pass Police Department, Josephine County Community Corrections, and the Josephine County District Attorney’s Office, the HIDTA program coordinates and provides vital funding resources to support multi-agency drug enforcement initiatives like RADE.