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Belfast Today
By the People, for the People
5 Arrested in Searsport Drug Trafficking Bust
Methamphetamine, cocaine, and firearms seized in multi-month investigation
Mar. 10, 2026 at 6:39pm
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Five individuals have been arrested and charged with drug trafficking offenses following a months-long investigation into the suspected sale of methamphetamine and cocaine from two residences in Searsport, Maine. Authorities executed search warrants at the homes, seizing drugs, cash, and firearms.
Why it matters
This case highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat the opioid crisis and drug trafficking in Maine communities. The seizure of firearms also raises concerns about the potential for violence associated with the drug trade in the region.
The details
Acting on a multi-month investigation, drug enforcement agents along with state and local police executed search warrants at two homes in Searsport on Tuesday. At the first residence on Loop Road, they arrested Holly Jo Ward, 42, of Searsport, as well as Yandril Mateo-Nunez, 20, and Nelkis Alexander Villalona-Perez, 22, both from Lawrence, Massachusetts. Agents seized $4,390 in suspected drug proceeds, 70 grams of methamphetamine, 24 grams of cocaine, and two guns. At the second home on Homestead Lane, David Hersom, 65, and Melissa Dyer, 47, both of Searsport, were arrested. During that search, 28 firearms and 29 grams of methamphetamine were found.
- The investigation lasted several months prior to the arrests on March 10, 2026.
- The search warrants and arrests took place early Tuesday morning on March 10, 2026.
The players
Holly Jo Ward
A 42-year-old Searsport resident charged with aggravated trafficking of Schedule W drugs, a Class A felony.
Yandril Mateo-Nunez
A 20-year-old from Lawrence, Massachusetts charged with aggravated trafficking of Schedule W drugs, a Class A felony.
Nelkis Alexander Villalona-Perez
A 22-year-old from Lawrence, Massachusetts charged with aggravated trafficking of Schedule W drugs, a Class A felony.
David Hersom
A 65-year-old Searsport resident charged with unlawful trafficking of Schedule W drugs, a Class B felony.
Melissa Dyer
A 47-year-old Searsport resident charged with unlawful trafficking of Schedule W drugs, a Class B felony.
What’s next
The five suspects are being held at Waldo County Jail in Belfast until their initial court appearance.
The takeaway
This bust underscores the ongoing efforts by Maine law enforcement to disrupt drug trafficking networks and seize illegal narcotics and firearms in local communities. The case highlights the complex challenges in addressing the opioid crisis and the potential for violence associated with the drug trade.
