Police seize 2 pounds of marijuana in drug bust

Local investigators uncovered more than 2 pounds of marijuana and $6,300 in cash Thursday when they executed a search warrant at a Radcliff man’s home on Wintergreen Drive.

Henry L. Butler Jr., 35, was arrested on charges of trafficking in marijuana — more than 8 ounces and less than 5 pounds, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Ron Eckart, director of the Greater Hardin County Narcotics Task Force, said the task force has noticed a higher quality of marijuana in the area recently, which is unusual because of its cost compared to the typical product.

Through collaboration with Louisville Metro Police and Radcliff Police Department, the task force identified Butler as a suspect and served a search warrant Thursday at his residence, Eckart said.

Officers uncovered 2.8 pounds of marijuana, $6,300 in cash and a handgun, he said.

According to Eckart, the marijuana potentially could be medical-grade product shipped from California or Colorado. It sells for $4,000 to $5,000 per pound and about $400 per ounce.

“It matches exactly what we’ve been seeing,” Eckart said.

Police believe Butler was a “major supplier” for the Radcliff area, he said, and the investigation is ongoing. The task force is looking into other potential suspects, Eckart said.

Butler is lodged at the Hardin County Detention Center in lieu of a $75,000 cash bond.

He was arraigned Friday via video feed in Hardin District Court and is scheduled to appear Feb. 15 for a preliminary hearing.

Butler’s trafficking charge is a Class D felony, which is punishable by one to five years in prison if found guilty, according to Kentucky Revised Statutes.

Because police found a weapon at the residence, Eckart said the charges could be enhanced.

Sarah Bennett can be reached at (270) 505-1750 or sbennett@thenewsenterprise.com.