Ironwood probation officer arrested for driving under the influence and possession of methamphetamine

UPPER MICHIGAN (WLUC) – An Ironwood man on parole was arrested May 6 on charges of operating under the influence of a controlled substance and possession of methamphetamine.

In April, the Gogebic Iron Area Narcotics team received information that Brian Panek was involved in the distribution of methamphetamine throughout the Gogebic County Area. Panek, a resident of the City of Ironwood, was released from prison on August 31, 2022 for methamphetamine possession and unlawfully driving away an automobile in Mecosta County, Michigan and is currently on parole with the Michigan Department of Corrections.

As GIANT investigators continued their investigation, they learned that Panek had driven to Lower Michigan and was suspected of taking methamphetamine to distribute in Gogebic County. When Panek returned to Gogebic County, HUGE investigators stopped Panek and he was arrested for violating his probation and operating under the influence of controlled substances.

After officers arrested Panek, Deputy Cody Smith had K9 Debwe walk around the vehicle and he struck the car. Investigators spoke with Gogebic County Prosecutor Nicholas Jacobs, who reviewed and approved a search warrant for the vehicle. After the search warrant was activated, investigators searched the car and Undersheriff Jorge Cruz found just over 100 grams of methamphetamine. (Local street value of approximately $10,000)

After reviewing the additional information, Attorney General Jacobs approved the following

Charges against Panek.

Possession with intent to deliver methamphetamine – 20 year sentence

Possession with intent to deliver methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of a school – 20-year felony

Possession with intent to deliver methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of a library – 20 year sentence

Possession with intent to deliver methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of a park – 20 year sentence

Maintaining a drug house – 2 year sentence

Since the arrest, Panek has been arraigned in the 98th District Court and is currently held at the Gogebic County Sheriff’s Department on a $25,000 bond. The Michigan Department of Corrections also arrested Panek, meaning he can only be released from prison with their permission.

The GIANT team would like to thank the Michigan Department of Corrections and the Gogebic County Road Commission for their support.

Copyright 2024 WLUC. All rights reserved.