Authorities announce results of tri-state crime probe

CENTERVILLE, Ohio (AP) — Ohio and federal authorities say a two-year probe of multiple crime rings linked to drug trafficking, pharmacy burglaries and home break-ins has resulted in 20 arrests.

Ohio Attorney General Richard Cordray and U.S. Attorney Carter Stewart made the announcement today in the Dayton suburb of Centerville the results of “Operation Boltcutter.”

They say an undercover investigation began in late 2007 into drug trafficking operating from southwest Ohio’s Montgomery County and extending into Warren County and eastern Kentucky. Authorities say that led to probes of groups involved in shoplifting, robberies and burglaries targeting prescription drugs in the tri-state region including Indiana.

Most of those arrested have been convicted and sentenced.