A Michigan man and two Wisconsin residents were arrested as part of a multi-state methamphetamine distribution scheme.
The investigation began with the initial suspect, Shane T. Reinfelder, 39. According to reports, he was importing methamphetamine to Gogebic County for distribution.
In pursuing Reinfelder, the Gogebic Iron Area Narcotics Team (GIANT) discovered that the suspect was obtaining the drugs in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and transporting them to the Upper Peninsula. It was also revealed that Reinfelder had an “extensive” drug and weapon background, as well as many arrest warrants.
GIANT contacted agencies in Michigan and Wisconsin to gather more about Reinfelder’s activities, and they discovered that he planned to arrive in Gogebic County early on May 11 carrying controlled narcotics.
Reinfelder, who was traveling to Ironwood with two companions, was followed by GIANT detectives.
Officials set up surveillance in unmarked automobiles at the suspect’s destination. When he arrived, uniformed officers with marked patrol cars approached the individuals. Reinfelder tried to leave on foot, but was apprehended within 30 yards of the vehicle.
Officers discovered roughly five ounces of methamphetamine, one ounce of heroin (brown and black tar), one ounce of psilocybin, fentanyl, cocaine, many types of prescription drugs, and US money inside the vehicle.
All inmates were arrested and arraigned in the 98th District Court at the Gogebic County Courthouse.
Reinfelder was charged with possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, two counts of conspiracy to provide methamphetamine, possession with intent to deliver heroin, conspiracy to deliver cocaine, and resisting and obstructing law enforcement.
He holds a $100,000 cash bond. Door County, Wisconsin, has also placed a hold on Reinfelder due to the warrant they have out for him.
One of the passengers, 31-year-old Milwaukee resident Isaac W. Sawyer, was charged with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, two counts of conspiracy to supply methamphetamine, possession with intent to deliver heroin, conspiracy to deliver heroin, and maintaining a drug house.
Sawyer has a $100,000 cash bond and is on federal parole for interfering with interstate commerce by armed robbery.
The third defendant, 20-year-old Layla R. Filpek of Two Rivers, Wisconsin, was charged with possessing methamphetamine with intent to deliver and conspiracy to deliver. The court has bonded her for $50,000, with a 10% interest rate.
GIANT received assistance from the Milwaukee Police District 6 Gang Unit, Door County Sheriff, UPSET West, Sheboygan County Sheriff, Federal Parole, Michigan State Police, Gogebic County Sheriff, Ironwood Public Safety, Iron County Sheriff, Hurley Police, and Gogebic County Prosecuting Attorney Nicholas J. Jacobs.
