News

Cocaine, drugs seized in countywide bust

Hernando Today staff
Published: December 14, 2012

BROOKSVILLE - Hernando County sheriff narcotic detectives served three search warrants Tuesday, ultimately arresting eight people and seizing drugs, weapons and vehicles.

The bust was the culmination of a four-month investigation to rid neighborhoods of street drugs and their dealers. Law enforcement recovered more than 17 grams of crack cocaine, six oxycodone tablets, 11 firearms and three vehicles.

"These types of investigations can be both lengthy and expensive, but worth every penny spent to keep the community safe," said Col. Mike Maurer in a media release. "I am concerned about the amount of firearms seized and the drugs in this case. Guns and drugs are a violent combination and we will continue to take an aggressive approach to the arrest and prosecution of these cases."

Eight individuals were arrested during the raids at 7169 Algonquin St., Weeki Wachee, 7055 Merrick Lane and 4017 Portillo Road, both in Spring Hill.

Spencer Bennett, 36, on charges of sale of crack cocaine, sale of crack cocaine within a 1,000 feet of a daycare, sale of crack cocaine within 1,000 feet of a church, possession of crack cocaine, unlawful use of two-way communication device and possession of drug paraphernalia. His bond was set at $235,000.

Gerald Mullins, 61, on charges of principle to sale of crack cocaine, possession of conveyance for sale of crack cocaine, possession of crack cocaine, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of firearm with altered serial number. His bond was set at $76,000.

Michael Stambaugh, 37, on charges of sale of crack cocaine within 1,000 feet of a daycare, possession of conveyance for sale of crack cocaine, possession of crack cocaine and possession of drug paraphernalia. His bond was set at $55,500.

Eric Batcheller, 41, on charges of sale of crack cocaine, possession of crack cocaine, sale of Oxycodone, possession of Oxycodone, possession of drug paraphernalia, principle to sale of crack cocaine, possession of structure for sale of narcotics and unlawful use of two-way communication device. His bond was set at $151,000.

John Lewandowski, 47, on warrants for charges of principle to sale of crack cocaine, possession of conveyance for sale of crack cocaine. His bond was set at $25,000.

Peggy O'Neill, 48, on charge of possession of drug paraphernalia. She was given a notice to appear in court.