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Two individuals were arrested in Franklin, New Hampshire, on Thursday, January 25, 2025, after a months-long narcotics investigation led by the New Hampshire State Police. The arrest resulted in the seizure of over 1,000 grams of fentanyl, along with other drugs, firearms, and cash.
According to the Maine Wire the primary suspect, 39-year-old Michael Brownell of Franklin, was apprehended by the State Police Narcotics Investigation Unit (NIU), which had been monitoring the operation for several months. Along with 1,300 grams of fentanyl, authorities also seized 500 grams of methamphetamine, $5,000 in cash, and two firearms during the bust.
During the operation, law enforcement also arrested 32-year-old Kaitlyn Blake of Belmont on an outstanding bench warrant for motor vehicle-related crimes. The connection between Blake and Brownell was not immediately clear, as no further details were provided by authorities.
To ensure the safety of the operation, the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team was deployed, although law enforcement stated there was no indication that either suspect resisted arrest or attempted to engage with officers in a violent manner.
Brownell now faces a series of serious charges, including five counts of the sale of controlled substances in excess of five ounces, four counts of the sale of controlled substances, two counts of possession of controlled substances, transporting drugs in a motor vehicle, and two counts of being a felon in possession of a dangerous weapon.
Both Brownell and Blake are being held at the Merrimack County Department of Corrections. Brownell was arraigned in Laconia, NH, Circuit Court and remains in custody. Blake is awaiting her appearances in the Plymouth and Laconia Circuit Courts for the outstanding warrants.
This bust highlights the ongoing efforts by state law enforcement to combat the ongoing fentanyl crisis and the dangers posed by illegal drug trafficking in New Hampshire. The seizure of such a large quantity of fentanyl is a significant blow to drug distribution in the region, and authorities are continuing their investigation into the scope of Brownell’s operations.
If you or your loved one are struggling with drug abuse, reach out to Avenues Recovery to begin your healing journey. We have helped over 40,000 people rewrite their stories and we can help you too. Our highly compassionate staff will guide and support you every step of the way to recovery. Contact us today to begin treatment in a caring and professional environment.