October 12, 2020 6:40 p.m.

On Sunday, the Douglas Interagency Narcotics Team nabbed three men, accused of being part of an interstate drug trafficking organization.

Lieutenant Rick McArthur of DINT said the group has been having a big impact on the local area, as well as other surrounding communities. A release said detectives suspect the organization of trafficking large amounts of methamphetamine and heroin from southern California to Douglas County.

McArthur said as part of the investigation, Sunday afternoon at 1:30 p.m. DINT detectives and deputies from the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office initiated a traffic stop on a sedan on Interstate Five at milepost 85, north of Glendale. The vehicle was occupied by 54-year old Michael Panoosi, 34-year old Jack Lewis, and 44-year old Michael Housel, all from the greater Los Angeles area.

McArthur said detectives executed a search warrant on the vehicle and found approximately 46.5 pounds of suspected methamphetamine, 1.4 pounds of suspected heroin and several firearms. Detectives believe much of the drugs were destined for Douglas County, as well as some surrounding communities.

Panoosi and Lewis were each charged with unlawful possession and delivery of both meth and heroin. Lewis was also charged with three counts of unlawful possession of a firearm. After arraignment, he remained detained on $2 million bail. Panoosi was also charged with one count of unlawful possession of a firearm. He was released from custody on Monday. Housel was cited for unlawful possession and delivery of meth.

McArthur said the investigation is continuing and more arrests are likely.

Roseburg Police drug detection K-9 Trapper also assisted in the case. McArthur said Trapper earned some well-deserved treats and a day off.