A large-scale narcotics operation conducted by the Virginia State Police Star City Drug and Violent Crime Task Force (HIDTA), in coordination with the Drug Enforcement Administration and the City of Roanoke Police Department, led to the seizure of significant quantities of illicit drugs and the arrest of two individuals on February 11, 2025.
Authorities executed two federal search warrants at residences in the 2900 block of Yorktown Place, SW, and the 2400 block of Massachusetts Avenue, NW.
The operation was strategically timed with the arrival of a narcotics courier traveling from California to Virginia.
Task force members observed the courier carrying two duffle bags into the residence of Wendell Antonio Johnson moments before the warrants were executed.
During the search, law enforcement officers seized approximately 8 kilograms of suspected cocaine and 2 kilograms of suspected fentanyl, both of which are considered highly dangerous and have been linked to rising overdose deaths nationwide.
Two Roanoke residents were arrested in connection with the operation:
Wendell Antonio Johnson, 53, who was released from federal prison in 2020, has been charged federally with Possession with Intent to Distribute 500 grams or more of Cocaine.
John Bauer Glass, 55, was also charged federally with Possession with Intent to Distribute 500 grams or more of Cocaine.
Both men are currently being held at the Roanoke Adult Detention Center without bond under a federal detainer.
Officials indicate that additional charges may be forthcoming following discussions with the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
The Star City Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, responsible for the investigation, is composed of personnel from multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Virginia State Police, City of Roanoke Police Department, Salem Police Department, Roanoke County Police Department, and Vinton Police Department.
Authorities continue to emphasize their commitment to dismantling high-level drug trafficking operations that pose a threat to communities across the region.
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