On June 6, 2019, the Street Crimes Response Team (SCRT) arrested Jason McNeely after many months of compiling evidence, regarding his involvement with buying and selling illegal narcotics. The SCRT spotted McNeely driving and coordinated with the Newport Police K9 Team and conducted a traffic stop on McNeely’s vehicle. Officer’s on scene quickly noticed a restricted weapon that McNeely wasn’t allowed to have in his possession. McNeely was detained at this point.
Officer Randall had his canine partner, Nero, search the vehicle and Nero gave several alerts indicating the presence of narcotic odor emitting from the vehicle. A subsequent search revealed the finding of Methamphetamine and drug packaging materials as well as a large amount of U.S. currency. Also located during the search was a loaded 9mm pistol and additional ammunition.
The SCRT took the information obtained from McNeely’s arrest and continued an investigation. Jose Guadalupe Gonzalez of Newport, OR, became a person of interest. The SCRT Investigators submitted for and were granted a search warrant based on the information gathered. On June 8th, 2019 at about 11:00pm, a search warrant was served on Gonzalez’s residence. During the search, a large quantity of Methamphetamine, digital scales, packaging material and U.S. currency were located. Two minor children were also in the home. Gonzalez denied any drugs were in the home.
In all, the SCRT seized two pounds of methamphetamine and several thousand dollars in U.S. currency. Also seized was a 9mm handgun and ammunition. The success of these arrests were the result of a multi-month investigation into county wide methamphetamine trafficking by McNeely and Gonzalez.
McNeely was lodged at the Lincoln County Jail for, Delivery / Possession / Manufacturing of
Methamphetamine, Felon in Possession of a Firearm and a Restricted Weapon. His bail was set at $500,000.00. Gonzalez was lodged at the Lincoln County Jail for, Delivery / Possession / Manufacturing of Methamphetamine. His bail was set at $750,000.00. An investigation continues into Child Neglect as well.
The Street Crimes Response Unit (SCRT) is a newly developed team designed to augment the Patrol Division. This team specializes in the handling of community impact crimes, such as narcotics investigations, and does so by investigating these crimes thoroughly.
The SCRT is made up of members of the Newport Police and the Lincoln City Police Departments and often obtains assistance from the Toledo Police Department and Lincoln County Sheriffs Office. Newport Police drug detection K9 Nero also assisted with this investigation.
The Newport Police Department encourages citizens to report any suspicious activity they witness, as it may assist law enforcement. The Newport Police Tip Line is available at 541-574-5455, or Text-a-Tip at 541-270-1856 or tipline@newportpolice.net.
Information and photos provided by NPD
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