Crime & Safety
Scioto County, OH Drug Bust: $7,200 in Suspected Cocaine Seized
Portsmouth, OH – A Columbus man faces two first degree felony drug charges after Ohio State Highway Patrol troopers seized approximately 72 grams of suspected cocaine, valued at $7,200, during a traff
By Paige Sullivan · 2026-10-22T12:02:55.345Z
Portsmouth, OH – A Columbus man faces two first degree felony drug charges after Ohio State Highway Patrol troopers seized approximately 72 grams of suspected cocaine, valued at $7,200, during a traffic stop in Scioto County on Wednesday, Oct. 21.
According to the Scioto County Sheriff 's Office, the arrest followed an ongoing investigation conducted by the Southern Ohio Drug Task Force in coordination with the Ohio State Highway Patrol.
Authorities identified the suspect as Jimmy Lee Jones, 38, of Columbus, Ohio.
At approximately 4:27 p.m. Wednesday, troopers stopped a vehicle for traffic violations near mile marker 24 on State Route 73 in West Portsmouth.
During the traffic stop, troopers reportedly discovered and seized approximately 72 grams of suspected cocaine.
Investigators estimated the street value of the seized substance at $7,200.
Two First Degree Felony Charges Filed
Jones was arrested and charged with one count of trafficking in drugs and one count of possession of drugs.
Both charges are classified as first degree felonies under Ohio law, according to the sheriff's office.
Jones was booked into the Scioto County Jail and scheduled for arraignment at 9 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 22, in Portsmouth Municipal Court.
Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing.
The case will be forwarded to the Scioto County Prosecutor's Office for presentation to a Scioto County grand jury, which may consider additional charges.
Authorities Request Information
Scioto County Sheriff David Thoroughman and Portsmouth Police Chief Debby Brewer are encouraging residents with information about suspected drug activity to contact the Southern Ohio Drug Task Force.
Tips can be submitted by calling 740 354 3784 DRUG or emailing drugs@sciotocountysheriff.com.
Authorities said information provided through the tip line will remain confidential and anonymous.
The charges against Jones are allegations. He is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.