Williamson County, IL – A long-running drug investigation in Southern Illinois led to seven arrests Thursday morning after deputies executed a search warrant at a Whiteash residence previously shut down for illegal narcotics activity.
According to the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office, deputies served a court-authorized search warrant around 9:15 a.m. Thursday at a property in the 200 block of Sanders Avenue in Whiteash, where authorities say illegal drug sales had resumed following an earlier enforcement action.
Investigators said the residence had been the subject of repeated complaints and intelligence reports over several years. Deputies had previously executed a search warrant at the same location on June 12, 2024, an investigation that resulted in multiple drug and weapons cases and the conviction of Joseph E. Wallace, who was later paroled after serving approximately 6½ months, according to officials.
Following Wallace’s release, authorities said drug activity allegedly resurfaced at the property. On Wednesday, deputies reportedly intercepted narcotics that had just been purchased from the residence, leading to the arrest of a buyer and further confirming ongoing criminal activity.
During Thursday’s search, deputies entered a house trailer and camper on the property and arrested seven individuals. Authorities reported recovering methamphetamine, controlled substances, ammunition, and drug paraphernalia.
In a related operation, deputies also conducted a traffic stop in Marion, Illinois, resulting in the arrest of two additional individuals and the recovery of methamphetamine and a controlled substance, officials said.
The Illinois Department of Corrections has since issued a warrant revoking Wallace’s parole.
All individuals were transported to the Williamson County Jail pending further court proceedings. Charges range from Class A misdemeanors to Class X and Class 2 felonies, according to the sheriff’s office.
“This case highlights our continued commitment to holding repeat offenders accountable,” Sheriff Jeff Diederich said in a statement.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the sheriff’s office or submit a tip through the department’s mobile app.
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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