Effingham Undercover Operation Yields Drug Dealer Arrests

Two adult arrests were made Tuesday, July 16, 2019 at approximately 4 p.m. in the 1500th block of W. Fayette by Effingham Police Department, which netted a total of nine criminal narcotics charges. Police conducted the undercover operation with the assistance of the South Eastern Illinois Drug Task Force in a joint effort to combat the influx of drug dealers in Effingham.

Bridget R. Welter, 32, Effingham, was arrested for:

•Possession with Intent to Deliver Methamphetamine 15-100 grams

•Methamphetamine Conspiracy

•Possession of Methamphetamine

•Possession of a Controlled Substance

•Possession of Contraband in a Penal Institution

•Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

 

Joshua R. Keck, 31, Altamont, was arrested for:

• Possession with Intent to Deliver Methamphetamine 15-100 grams

• Methamphetamine Conspiracy

• Possession of Methamphetamine

Possession with Intent to Deliver is a Class X Felony, punishable by 6-30 years in prison. Methamphetamine Conspiracy carries the same sentencing guidelines, while Possession of Methamphetamine 15-100 grams is a Class 1 Felony. Both individuals are currently incarcerated in Effingham County Jail awaiting a hearing scheduled for Thursday morning to set bond.

Police Chief Jason McFarland said of the arrests, “Effingham Police are sending a strong message to our community with all the recent dealer arrests - local Law Enforcement is working closely with other agencies to keep drugs off our streets and dealers out of our neighborhoods.

"Furthermore, word is getting back to other dealers that we are cracking down on drugs and Effingham is not the place to deal. We intend to utilize every tool at our disposal and work with other agencies to make sure drug dealers know Effingham takes these crimes seriously.

"If you or someone you know suffers with a substance abuse issue, we encourage them to seek help. Resources are available to help overcome addiction."