Death – Obituary – Accident and Crime News : Months-long Investigation by East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office Leads to Eight Arrests
BATON ROUGE, La. (BRPROUD) – After an extensive investigation spanning several months, the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office (EBRSO) has arrested eight individuals on charges related to drug distribution in the Baton Rouge area. The individuals arrested are John McClendon, 51, Kelvin Waller, 45, Kenneth Waller, 49, Angela Brewster, 47, Elliot Darensburg, 44, Robert Deemer Jr., 57, Lashonda Williams, 44, and Tomika Thorton, 42.
The investigation, initiated in September, targeted a group of alleged drug dealers involved in the distribution of crack cocaine, cocaine, and fentanyl. As the investigation progressed, agents from EBRSO conducted several controlled purchases of crack cocaine from the suspects. Additionally, agents identified various locations that these individuals utilized to facilitate their illicit activities.
As a result of the investigation, EBRSO obtained and executed eight search warrants on November 30. The search locations included properties on Missouri Street, Lorri Burgess Avenue, Foster Road, West Mohawk Avenue, Plank Road, Timberstone Drive, and Terrace Avenue. During the execution of these search warrants, law enforcement seized a significant amount of evidence, including 200 pressed fentanyl pills (equivalent to 200 lethal doses), 13 grams of cocaine, 14 ounces of marijuana, and $9,932 in cash. Furthermore, a variety of firearms were confiscated, such as DPMS semiauto rifles, a Smith and Wesson semiauto handgun, a Delton semiauto rifle, a Marlin rifle, and a Maverick Arms shotgun.
Each individual arrested in this case faces specific charges. John McClendon, 51, is charged with distribution of crack cocaine, possession with intent to distribute marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of a firearm with controlled dangerous substances. Kelvin Waller, 45, is charged with distribution of crack cocaine, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, marijuana, and fentanyl, operation of a clandestine laboratory, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Kenneth Waller, 49, faces charges of distribution of crack cocaine.
Angela Brewster, 47, is charged with being a fugitive of the Baker Police Department, possession with intent to distribute marijuana, possession of a firearm with controlled dangerous substances, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Elliot Darensburg, 44, faces charges of possession with intent to distribute cocaine, possession of marijuana, possession of a firearm with controlled dangerous substances, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Robert Deemer Jr., 57, is charged with possession with intent to distribute cocaine, operation of a clandestine laboratory, possession of a firearm with controlled dangerous substances, possession of a firearm by a felon, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Lashonda Williams, 44, is charged with theft of a motor vehicle based on an affidavit warrant from the Baton Rouge Police Department. Tomika Thorton, 42, also faces charges related to drug distribution.
The East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office received assistance from various law enforcement agencies during this investigation, including the Baton Rouge Police Department, Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office, Louisiana State Police, Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office, DEA Task Force, and the Louisiana National Guard Air Support.
This successful operation serves as a testament to the commitment and collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies in combatting drug trafficking and keeping communities safe in the Baton Rouge area.