According to the FBI and federal prosecutors, the evidence in a recent investigation just northeast of Ann Arbor involved conversations about customers angry about a drop-off in product quality.
Federal agents recently arrested four people on drug-trafficking charges, claiming that they are part of a Pontiac-based operation that sells large amounts of fentanyl, heroin, cocaine and methamphetamines.
Officials said that though the organization is based near here, it has associates across the nation, including in Tennessee, Indiana and West Virginia. The group allegedly purchases drugs from a source in Mexico, and then the substances are shipped to Phoenix, Arizona, and then shipped to Michigan using the U.S. Postal Service.
Law enforcement officials say they recorded conversations between suspects about customer complaints about diminishing quality in the drugs they were trying to sell.
Drugs seized in raids while the suspects were arrested include three kilos of fentanyl and a kilogram of cocaine.
Federal agents also said they seized approximately three kilos of cocaine during the course of the investigation, as well as a separate shipment of four kilos of coke and fentanyl that had been mailed in Phoenix and was headed to a Clinton Township address.
A 61-year-old suspect was previously convicted on charges that included drug manufacturing and money laundering, a news report stated. He has been charged with attempted possession with intent to distribute controlled substances.
If you or a loved one faces similarly serious allegations, contact an Ann Arbor law firm experienced in drug crime defense, as well as protecting rights and freedom.