Park Forest, IL Drug Bust: Police Seize $85K, Cocaine and 8 Guns

Park Forest, IL – A months-long drug investigation in the south suburban Chicago area led police to seize more than $85,000, suspected cocaine and eight firearms from a residence, authorities announced Thursday.

According to the Park Forest Police Department, its Investigations Division and the South Suburban Emergency Response Team executed a search warrant at approximately 5:30 a.m. Aug. 11 at a residence on Hawthorne Avenue in unincorporated Park Forest.

Police said the warrant followed a months-long investigation into suspected drug manufacturing and distribution.

During the search, detectives reported recovering approximately 45 grams of suspected cocaine, multiple digital scales, packaging materials and more than $85,000 in U.S. currency.

Investigators also seized eight firearms, including two rifles and a handgun that authorities said had been reported stolen.

Several people were initially taken into custody during the search, according to police. Following the investigation, authorities charged a 46-year-old Park Forest man with manufacturing or delivery of a controlled substance, a Class X felony.

The man was also charged with eight counts of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon and possession of cocaine. Police did not identify the defendant in the information released Thursday.

Park Forest police said the investigation was part of the department's continuing effort to disrupt suspected illegal drug manufacturing and distribution in the community.

Authorities did not immediately provide information about the defendant's next court appearance or whether additional charges could follow.

The charges are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.