Michael Jestila

HOUGHTON — Law enforcement officers arrested two men on a variety of drug-distribution charges. According to a press release from the Upper Peninsula Substance Enforcement Team (UPSET), for the last several months, detectives have been investigating two men that were believed to be distributing crystal methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl in Houghton and Baraga Counties. On Thursday, detectives from UPSET executed three search warrants at known drug houses and arrested two men who were suspected of distributing drugs in the two countries

The first search warrant was executed at a residence in Dollar Bay where detectives seized methamphetamine, electronic devices, and $650 in cash. Bredon Hanks, a 27-year-old man, was arrested on charges relating to the distribution of methamphetamine and cocaine. Hanks was lodged in Houghton County Jail.

The second search warrant was executed at a residence in Hancock. During a search of the residence detectives seized MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy, fentanyl compounds and carfentanil, which is a powerful synthetic opioid 100 times more potent than fentanyl. Detectives also seized counterfeit pills, electronic devices, and $430 in cash. Michael Jestila, 60 from Houghton County was arrested for delivery of methamphetamine. Jestila was lodged in the Baraga County Jail. A third search warrant was executed at a residence in Baraga County that was believed to be owned by Jestila. Small amounts of cocaine and methamphetamine were seized.

In total detectives seized more than a quarter pound of crystal methamphetamine, an ounce of cocaine, and small amounts of MDMA and fentanyl. These drugs hold an estimated street value of more than $15,000. The investigations remain ongoing.

Jestila was arraigned in the 97th District Court Baraga County on Friday, for Delivery of Methamphetamine. His bond was set at $5,000. Also on Friday, Hanks was arraigned in 97th District Court in Houghton, for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine. His bond was set at $100,000.