3 arrested on local drug charges

By RICHARD JENKINS

rjenkins@yourdailyglobe.com

Bessemer — A shoplifting complaint at a local store has led to the arrest of three people on local drug charges.

The Michigan State Police and Gogebic County Sheriff’s Department responded to a shoplifting complaint at the Ironwood Walmart on Aug. 17 involving two people — a man who was arrested on the scene and a second who had fled on foot.

During the investigation, law enforcement personnel learned both individuals were staying at an Ironwood motel, according to a Gogebic Iron Area Narcotics Team news release.

The man arrested at the store was identified as Joshua Alan Perren, 38, of Onalaska, Wisconsin.

At the motel, law enforcement personnel attempting to locate the second individual were able to verify his identity as Derrick Menara, 42, of Onalaska.

The execution of a search warrant of the motel room resulted in the seizure of alleged methamphetamine and heroin, according to the news release.

Perren has been charged with possession with intent to deliver meth and conspiracy to deliver meth, two felonies which carry potential maximum penalties of 20 years in prison.

Menara was later arrested and charged with two counts of delivery of meth and maintaing a drug house, according to district court officials. Menara was also served with an outstanding GCSD warrant for possession of a Schedule 2 controlled substance.

As part of the investigation, Cari Stein, 23, was also arrested for possession of heroin and operating a vehicle under the influence of controlled substances.

All three individuals have been arraigned in the 98th District court. Menara and Perren are currently lodged at the Gogebic County Jail on $10,000 cash bonds. Perren also has a hold from the Wisconsin Department of Corrections.

Stein has been released on a $5,000 personal recognizance bond. 

The investigation is continuing, according to the release, and additional charges or arrests are possible.