Special operation cleans up several arrests and drug seizures in Wheeling

WHEELING, W.Va.- (WTRF) A total of 13 people were arrested and face criminal charges after the Wheeling Police Department successfully conducted a special operation to reduce drugs, prostitution and d ‘other complaints in the city center.

Police Chief Shawn Schwertfeger says he is extremely proud of the officers who devoted many hours to the operation as well as the local business owners and residents who have lodged complaints about the situation.

According to Chief Schwertfeger, officers confiscated a variety of illegal drugs and drug equipment from the Knights Inn, the former Wheeling Inn, on Main Street.

Everything from cocaine and fetanyl to digital scales, needles and smoking devices have been seized.

“During the month of July and the middle of August, around 202 man-hours were spent on surveillance and other forms of selective enforcement in this region, resulting in a litany of drug arrests and a litany of drug seizures. “

Wheeling Police Chief Shawn Schwertfeger

Wheeling’s David Arthur Hess faces a charge of possession with intent to deliver.

Meanwhile, Anand Arvind Patel and Daniel Paul Wheeler, both of Wheeling, were arrested and charged with maintaining and operating a drug depot.