HAMILTON, Ohio — A 34-year-old Hamilton man is facing felony drug charges after the Butler County Undercover Regional Narcotics Task Force (B.U.R.N.) executed a search warrant Wednesday morning in the 2100 block of Pater Avenue. According to Sheriff Richard K. Jones, B.U.R.N. agents served the warrant at approximately 8:45 a.m. on June 10, following an extensive investigation. During the search, agents seized approximately 15 grams of methamphetamine, 17 grams of fentanyl, $1,600 in cash, and a firearm. Andrew Bowman, of Hamilton, was arrested and charged with Possession of Drugs, a third-degree felony. Authorities say additional charges may be presented to the Butler County Grand Jury.

In a statement, Sheriff Jones stressed the importance of the operation for community safety. “These investigations are critical to the safety and well-being of our community,” Jones said. “By targeting individuals involved in the trafficking and possession of dangerous narcotics, B.U.R.N. continues to remove deadly drugs and illegal firearms from our neighborhoods.” The sheriff noted that the amount of fentanyl recovered has the potential to save lives, as even small quantities of the powerful synthetic opioid can be lethal. “You bring that poison into Butler County and illegally possess a gun, you can make your own decisions, but you don’t get to choose the consequences,” Sheriff Jones added. The Butler County Undercover Regional Narcotics Task Force is a multi-jurisdictional unit focused on combating drug trafficking and related crimes in the area. Officials say operations like this send a strong message that drug dealers and those involved with illegal firearms are not welcome in Butler County.