(Dublin) — Through investigative and collaborative efforts, the Dublin Police Department has identified and charged a drug trafficker in two overdose deaths.
In November 2019, Dublin Police began investigating an apparent fatal overdose at a residence on Willow Grove. Police responded to another apparent overdose death at a hotel within the city in February 2020.
Dublin Police detectives and Community Impact Unit investigators have identified Rashawn Kelly as the same drug supplier in both cases. Over the course of several months, investigators conducted surveillance of the suspect at multiple locations throughout Central Ohio, executed several search warrants related to the case, and maintained communication with both victims’ family members.
Additionally, through partnerships with the Ohio State Highway Patrol and Columbus Division of Police, investigators intercepted narcotics intended for distribution in Central Ohio, resulting in multiple counts of drug trafficking and felony drug possession against Kelly.
At the conclusion of the investigation, and based on persistent investigative efforts, members of the Community Impact Unit also charged Rashawn Kelly with two counts of Involuntary Manslaughter for the two fatal overdoses.
Dublin Chief of Police Justin Páez acknowledged the efforts of investigators and expressed his empathy for the victims’ families.
“One of our goals remains demonstrating our ability to effectively address issues of significant community concern, including pursuing drug traffickers and providing closure for victims’ families,” Páez said.
“By utilizing quality investigative tactics, diligence, perseverance, and leveraging various law enforcement partnerships, our Community Impact Unit held a dealer accountable for the unfortunate deaths of two people in our city.”
Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activity to Dublin Police by calling 614.889.1112 or visiting dublinohiousa.gov/police.
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Media Contact:
Rebecca Myers
Public Information Officer
614.381.5225 – Cell
rrmyers@dublin.oh.us
Newsroom: https://dublinohiousa.gov/newsroom/
