Task force investigation leads to drug and firearm trafficking arrests in Portsmouth

Portsmouth Police Chief Debby Brewer and Scioto County Sheriff David Thoroughman announce the arrest of two individuals following an investigation by the Southern Ohio Drug Task Force.

At approximately 7:13 a.m. on June 24, members of the Southern Ohio Drug Task Force, with tactical assistance from the Portsmouth Police Department SWAT, executed a narcotics-related search warrant on Jackson Street in Portsmouth.

During the search, officers allegedly seized approximately 73 grams of suspected crack cocaine, along with a loaded firearm, digital scales, approximately $12,077 in cash and additional evidence consistent with drug trafficking.

The estimated street value of the suspected drugs seized is $7,300.

Arrested and charged were:

• Kenneth Bailey, 36, of New Jersey was charged with:

– Trafficking in drugs – first-degree felony

– Possession of drugs – first-degree felony

– Having weapons under disability – third-degree felony.

Hannah Lynne Hughes Hickman, 24, of Portsmouth was charged with:

– Trafficking in Drugs – first-degree felony

– Possession of Drugs – first-degree felony

The case will be forwarded to the Scioto County Prosecutor’s Office for presentation to a Scioto County grand jury for consideration of additional felony charges.

Chief Brewer and Sheriff Thoroughman request that anyone with information related to drug activity contact the Southern Ohio Drug Task Force tip line at (740) 354-3784 (DRUG) or email at drugs@sciotocountysheriff.com.

All information provided to the Task Force will be kept confidential and anonymous.