MARION, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW) — In a significant operation on February 26, 2024, the MARMET Drug Task Force, in collaboration with the Marion City Police Department and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, executed a search warrant at a residence dangerously close to Garfield Elementary School.

The search warrant, granted by Marion Municipal Court Judge Teresa Ballinger, was carried out at 537 Swiss Dr in Marion, Ohio, a location within 600 feet of the school. The operation was strategically conducted after school hours to ensure the safety of students and staff.

The search resulted in the seizure of approximately 117.39 grams of methamphetamine, nearly $2,000 in cash, two pistols – one of which had been reported stolen, and additional items associated with drug trafficking.

Curtis Sexton was arrested for having weapons under disability, a restriction due to a previous criminal conviction. Clinton Heth was also taken into custody for a felony probation violation, resulting from the items seized during the search.

MARMET Detectives are continuing their investigation into the case, and additional charges may be forthcoming after a review from Marion County Prosecutor Ray Grogan and his Office.

Sheriff Matt Bayles commended the operation, stating, “Today’s operation is just another example of the hard-working men and women of MARMET, protecting our community from drug dealers. This person was dealing his poison within 600 feet of a school with weapons ready at hand. We will seek out people that put our children in danger and put them where they belong, in jail.”

Echoing these sentiments, Chief Jay McDonald added, “A narcotics dealer, who was illegally possessing firearms, this close to a school is extremely dangerous for our community. I am grateful for the hard work by officers and deputies in removing this trafficker from our streets.”

The MARMET Drug Task Force is a collaborative effort comprising members of the Marion Police Department, Marion County Sheriff’s Office, and the Marion County Prosecutors Office.

Marion County citizens are urged to report any criminal activity by calling 740-387-TIPS or online at mariontips.org. Tipsters may remain anonymous if they choose.