Buffalo, NY – A Buffalo man is facing a long list of felony charges after investigators allegedly uncovered a large amount of drugs, weapons and cash during a multi-agency operation this week.
According to the Erie County Sheriff’s Office, the arrest followed a four-month investigation led by the Narcotics Intelligence Unit, with assistance from federal and local agencies. Authorities said search warrants executed at multiple locations in Buffalo and Lockport resulted in the alleged seizure of several kilograms of drugs, including approximately 42 pounds of suspected crystal meth, about 11 pounds of suspected fentanyl and roughly 5 pounds of suspected cocaine.
Investigators also reportedly recovered a loaded shotgun believed to have been stolen, along with cash. Officials allege the seizure represents one of the largest single methamphetamine recoveries in the agency’s history.
Michael Hatten, 55, of Buffalo, was initially taken into custody Monday following a traffic stop and later arraigned in Buffalo City Court. He allegedly faces multiple charges, including first-, second-, third- and fourth-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, criminal possession of stolen property, criminally using drug paraphernalia and criminal possession of a weapon.
Authorities said Hatten was released after posting bail Tuesday but was taken into federal custody Wednesday by U.S. Marshals for an alleged violation of supervised release. He remains in federal custody.
Sheriff John C. Garcia stated deputies worked extensively on the case and emphasized the significance of removing large quantities of allegedly dangerous narcotics from the community. Officials noted the potential impact on public safety, particularly concerning fentanyl.
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional arrests or charges could follow as authorities continue to analyze evidence.
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