Two Hernando residents were arrested on Wednesday after the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office Tactical Impact Unit (TIU) executed a search warrant at 7168 N. Whippoorwill Terrace in Hernando.
Detectives arrested the homeowner, 31-year-old Ronald Mesick Jr., as well as the home’s other resident, 50-year-old Tammy Bryant. During their search of the house, detectives located fentanyl, methamphetamine, cannabis, a 9mm pistol and a 12 gauge shotgun.
The Citrus County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) said that TIU detectives were able to confirm the sale of narcotics in the residence through neighborhood complaints, intelligence and covert surveillance, resulting in a search warrant being issued.
The Sheriff’s Office said that ensuring a strong case is built and presented to the State Attorney’s Office for formal charges takes time and dedication. As with most narcotic investigations, this particular residence and these subjects are just a part of the overall objective of making Citrus County the Safest Community in Florida, the CCSO said.
“With each drug dealer detectives take off the streets of Citrus County, the safer our community becomes for everyone, including our vulnerable population struggling with addiction,” said Sheriff Mike Prendergast. “The Citrus County Sheriff’s Office will continue to work diligently to protect our citizens from the plight of illicit narcotics.”
Mesick’s bond was set at $21,000 for the following charges:
- Possession of methamphetamine with intent to sell
- Possession of a firearm in the commission of a felony
- Sell/lease/rent a drug dwelling
- Possession paraphernalia
- Warrant for driving on an expired license
Bryant’s bond was set at $8,000 for the following charges:
- Possession of fentanyl
- Sell/lease/rent a drug dwelling
- Possession of paraphernalia
Anyone with information on drug activity in the community is encouraged to contact the CCSO non-emergency line at (352) 726-1121, or to remain anonymous and become eligible for a reward, call Crime Stoppers at 1-888-ANY-TIPS.
