Martinsville drug investigation results in 14 charged

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MARTINSVILLE (WSLS 10) - Several mid-to-upper level drug dealers are in jail thanks to an ongoing investigation.

After a year of work, the police in Martinsville announced Friday they've arrested and indicted 14 individuals on 51 charges of the sale and distribution of drugs and narcotics.

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Police Chief Sean Dunn had a message to the community Friday.

"If you're selling drugs in the City of Martinsville, get ready, we're coming after you," said Dunn.

The department revealed an investigation that began in January of 2015 has put 14 people behind bars for selling drugs.

The department has issued 51 charges so far, which include the sale and distribution of marijuana, cocaine, and oxycodone.

"I think the message is pretty clear to anybody else out there that's not currently sitting in jail right now, what it means to deal drugs in Martinsville," said Commonwealth's Attorney Clay Gravely.

Gravely says he plans to pursue the harshest sentences possible for these alleged criminals to send a message to others thinking of doing the same.

"You'll regret it, and there's a good chance that you're next," said Gravely.

Dunn revealed Friday the investigation involved undercover operations incorporating people in the community.]

"These were... Without exception, as a result of citizens assisting us with undercover operations, making purchases from drug dealers in our community," said Dunn.

Dunn says those purchases ranged from increments of $40 to $300, using several sales in a row to finally charge many of the individuals.

Captain Robert Fincher says the investigation is ongoing and the community can expect the announcement of more arrests in the near future.

"This is just the tip of the iceberg, there will be more coming," said Fincher.

Police say the hope is that this undercover investigation results in new arrests and indictments every three months.