CHIPPEWA CO. -- Ten people are charged with more than thirty counts involving child abuse and drugs after a month-long investigation in Chippewa County.
The ten suspects from Brimley and Sault Ste. Marie, were arrested Thursday. The various charges include 20 counts of child abuse, 9 counts of conducting a criminal enterprise, several charges of manufacturing and delivery of marijuana as well as operating a drug lab in the presence of a minor.
The investigation began when a Chippewa County Deputy discovered marijuana plants at the scene of a domestic assault investigation. The discovery led to a series of search warrants being served at sites in Kinross, St. Ignace, Sault Ste. Marie and Brimley.
Investigators say evidence at the different locations alleged a criminal conspiracy to traffic marijuana and hash oil. Several of the suspects had minor children from 2-years-old and up in and around the marijuana grow operation.
Several hundred marijuana plants were seized by investigators along with several pounds of marijuana, hash oil, money and records.
More arrests are expected as the investigation continues. Many agencies are working together in the investigation. They include the Chippewa County Sheriff's Office, The Straits Area Narcotics Enforcement team (SANE), Bay Mills Police and Child Protective Services agents.
