In a sweeping bust highlighting the Methuen Police Department's commitment to disrupting local drug trafficking rings, a Methuen man faces a slew of charges following a joint operation between local law enforcement and federal agents. According to Methuen Police Department News, 36-year-old Eric Bruce Lohman was taken into custody and charged with trafficking various controlled substances and multiple firearms offenses.
The multi-agency collaboration, which included the Methuen Police Street Crimes Unit, the Drug Enforcement Administration's Cross Border Initiative, and the Massachusetts State Police, led to the September 10 stop of Lohman's vehicle where police found over one pound of methamphetamine. The subsequent search of his residence on Locust Road in Methuen, revealed an extensive array of drugs and weaponry. Among the items seized were kilograms of ketamine, black tar heroin, fentanyl pills, methamphetamine, OxyContin pills, and more, along with seven guns and over 1,000 rounds of ammunition.
Methuen Police Chief Scott McNamara praised the operation's success, attributing it to the robust partnerships with state and federal agencies. "This is a significant drug arrest that highlights the importance of our partnership with the DEA and Massachusetts State Police," McNamara stated, commending the diligence of the detectives involved in the case, according to the Methuen Police Department News.
The sheer quantity of narcotics seized points to a substantial drug operation, with Lohman facing charges for trafficking in excess of 200 grams for several substances. Specifically, he is accused of trafficking Class A substances such as ketamine, heroin, and fentanyl, and Class B substances that include methamphetamine, MDMA, and cocaine. In addition, there were charges for possession with intent to distribute various other controlled substances ranging from Class B down to Class E including Adderall, bath salts, and Xanax, among others. The firearms charges centered around unlawful possession of a firearm without an FID card and unlawful possession of ammunition.
Lohman was arraigned on September 11 in Lawrence District Court following his arrest in Somerville. As the case unfolds, attention is drawn once again to the ongoing battle against the narcotics trade in local communities, a battle that is bolstered through the concerted efforts of multiple law enforcement agencies working in tandem.
