A multi-agency narcotics investigation in Auburn led to the seizure of cocaine, drug packaging materials and a handgun, along with the arrests of four people on felony charges, according to the Finger Lakes Drug Task Force.
Investigators said search warrants were executed May 13 at several residences in the City of Auburn tied to an ongoing investigation into the alleged possession and sale of narcotics by James M. Humphrey and Neil E. Burt.
During the searches, authorities said investigators recovered cocaine, digital scales, packaging materials commonly associated with narcotics distribution and a handgun.
Police said 57-year-old James M. Humphrey of Auburn was charged with two counts of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, both Class B felonies, along with one count of tampering with physical evidence, a Class E felony.
Authorities also arrested 45-year-old Jessica L. Terwilliger of Auburn on two Class B felony counts of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.
Thirty-eight-year-old Neil E. Burt of Auburn was charged with third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, a Class B felony; fifth-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, a Class D felony; and third-degree criminal possession of a weapon, a Class D felony.
Investigators also charged 61-year-old Susan M. Ryan of Auburn with third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, a Class B felony, and fourth-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, a Class C felony.
All four defendants were arraigned in Auburn City Court.
According to the task force, Terwilliger and Ryan were released on their own recognizance. Investigators requested Burt be remanded to the Cayuga County Jail because of two prior felony convictions, but he was also released on his own recognizance.
Authorities said Humphrey, who investigators said has four prior felony convictions, was requested to be held at the Cayuga County Jail pending further court proceedings.
The Finger Lakes Drug Task Force is comprised of members from the New York State Police, Cayuga County Sheriff’s Office and Auburn Police Department.
Additional assistance during the operation was provided by the Auburn Police Department’s GIVE Unit, the Seneca County Sheriff’s Office and the Geneva Police Department.
The Cayuga County District Attorney’s Office will prosecute the case.
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