East Liverpool, OH – A traffic stop in Belmont County has led to a major drug bust involving multiple law enforcement agencies across eastern Ohio.
According to the Columbiana County Sheriff’s Office, deputies conducted a stop on December 10, 2025, that resulted in the discovery of roughly four pounds of suspected methamphetamine. The driver, identified as Hashim Dunlap, was taken into custody as investigators began coordinating with the Columbiana County Drug Task Force to expand the probe.
Detectives soon identified one of Dunlap’s suspected residences on East 8th Street in East Liverpool as a possible stash house. On December 11, Sheriff Brian McLaughlin and members of the Columbiana County Drug Task Force executed a search warrant at the property.
During the search, agents reportedly seized approximately 275 grams of suspected methamphetamine, 60 grams of what appeared to be cocaine or a fentanyl compound, and more than 200 prescription pills. Investigators also recovered packaging materials consistent with large-scale drug trafficking, officials said.
The task force credited cooperation among local, state, and federal agencies — including departments from Belmont and Columbiana counties, as well as East Liverpool and Bridgeport police — for the successful operation.
Authorities said the case remains under investigation, with additional charges pending.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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