Authorities shut down 'largest cocaine distribution operation in Washington County in decades'

WASHINGTON COUNTY, Wis. (CBS 58) -- The Washington County Drug Task Force arrested a 38-year-old man Tuesday, Nov. 19, shutting down what they're calling the largest cocaine distribution operation in Washington County in decades.  

Authorities say Jeremy Erdman of Germantown was arrested on various drug-dealing charges after a nearly 20-month investigation. Multiple search warrants were executed in the village of Germantown, including at Erdman's condominium, a storage unit and safety deposit boxes at two local banks. 

Officials seized 8.3 pounds of powder cocaine, 128 grams of crack cocaine, 16 hydrocodone pills and 384 grams of marijuana. 

Assets in excess of $300,000 including cash, bank accounts, gold, silver and a vehicle were seized by law enforcement. The Sheriff's Office says these assets are believed to be direct proceeds made from a significant, long-term substance delivery operation in the Germantown and Menomonee Falls area. 

Erdman made his initial appearance in court on Nov. 14 and was given a $50,000 cash bond. He was charged with five counts relating to the delivery of cocaine and marijuana and maintaining a drug trafficking place.