CIRCELVILLE, Ohio — A joint narcotics investigation spearheaded by local and regional law enforcement has resulted in a major drug seizure, netting over two pounds of suspected methamphetamine and leading to multiple arrests in Circleville.
Pickaway County Sheriff Matthew O. Hafey announced the details of the ongoing investigation, which was fueled by a wave of tips and complaints from concerned citizens regarding drug trafficking in the area.
Traffic Stop on US-23 Yields Two Pounds of Meth
The investigation culminated on July 28, 2026, when detectives from the South Central Ohio Major Crimes Unit targeted 44-year-old Andrea D. Crago of Circleville.
Law enforcement pulled over Crago’s vehicle for a traffic violation on US Route 23 South near Little Walnut Road. During the stop, officers recovered and seized just over two pounds of suspected methamphetamine alongside $868 in cash.
Andrea Crago was taken into custody and transported to the Pickaway County Jail. She has been formally charged with two counts of trafficking in drugs, both first-degree felonies. She is currently being held on a $100,000 cash or surety bond while awaiting her preliminary hearing.
Search Warrant Executed on Turner Drive
The following day, on July 29, 2026, investigators escalated the sweep by executing a search warrant at a residence located at 1216 Turner Drive in Circleville.
During the search, officers seized additional evidence tied to the trafficking ring. Furthermore, 48-year-old Rodney D. Crago was taken into custody at the scene on an outstanding child support warrant.
Multi-Agency Collaboration
Sheriff Hafey praised the seamless cooperation between multiple law enforcement and emergency agencies that contributed to the multi-day operation. Participating departments included:
- South Central Ohio Major Crimes Unit
- Lancaster Police Department
- Fairfield County Sheriff’s Office
- Ohio State Highway Patrol
- Circleville Police Department
- Circleville Fire and EMS (who assisted during the Turner Drive search warrant execution)
Looking Ahead
Authorities indicated that the investigation remains active. Further charges are expected to be filed once the complete case file is reviewed by the Pickaway County Prosecutor’s Office and presented to a Pickaway County Grand Jury.
