Two toilets full of suspected drugs and multiple arrests by law enforcement at local hotel

BELMONT COUNTY, Ohio – On March 1, the Criminal Interdiction Unit executed two search warrants at a local hotel, resulting in multiple arrests tied to drug trafficking and possession, according to Belmont County Sheriff James Zusack.

Cortez Shipp, also known as “Yo-Yo,” 33, of Canton, Ohio, and Mikayla Fansler, 29, of Coshocton, Ohio, were both taken into custody on multiple felony charges, including drug trafficking, drug possession, tampering with evidence, and manufacturing drugs.

During the arrests, Shipp allegedly attempted to destroy evidence by placing suspected drugs into the toilet. In addition, detectives recovered items consistent with drug packaging and manufacturing. The operation led to the seizure of 189 grams of methamphetamine, 42 grams of fentanyl, 43 grams of crack cocaine, and $1,800 in suspected drug proceeds.

While investigating, detectives discovered Cryshawn Blackford, known as “Tech 9,” 30, of Canton, Ohio, in another hotel room. Blackford, identified as a person of interest, reportedly refused law enforcement’s commands and fled into the bathroom, where he allegedly flushed drugs in an attempt to evade detection.

An unnamed female present in the room cooperated with detectives and allowed them to conduct a search. According to the witness, Blackford flushed multiple items down the toilet before being apprehended.

Blackford was booked into the Belmont County Jail on charges of tampering with evidence and obstructing official business.

The Belmont County Sheriff’s Office conducted the operation with the assistance of the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office.