Suspects' Names Released

BESSEMER, MI - Tuesday, July 22, 2008 - On Saturday morning, July 19th 2008, members of the Gogebic Iron Area Narcotics Team, (G.I.A.N.T.), executed a search warrant on an apartment located in the city of Bessemer. The search warrant was a result of a two month long investigation.

Two of the suspects arrested were arraigned in Gogebic County District Court late Monday afternoon. Christopher Stoernell (31 yoa) of Bessemer is charged with four felony counts of Delivery / Manufacturing Scheduled Drugs, each carrying a possible penalty of seven years in prison and/or a $10,000 fine. Stoernell was also arraigned on a fifth felony count of Delivery / Manufacturing Marijuana which has a possible penalty of four years in prison and/or a $20,000 fine. Stornell is currently being held on a $52,000 cash bond.

Derrick Menara (31 yoa) also of Bessemer was arraigned on a charge of Possession of Scheduled Drugs. His charge carries a possible penalty of two years in prison and/or a $2000 fine. He too remains in custody on a $7500 @ 10% bond.

A third suspect has posted bond on a misdemeanor Possession of Marijuana charge and faces an August 4th arraignment.

The investigation is continuing and future arrests may be forthcoming.