Three local police officers were recognized Friday for their work in combating the drug epidemic in Central Illinois. Christian County Sheriff's Office Investigator Jeff Brown, Pana Police Officer Adam Ladage and Taylorville Police Detective Evert Nation were recognized at the Illinois MEG Directors and Task Force Commanders Association Annual Awards Banquet in East Peoria.
Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp says these three men put in many hours to get drugs out of the county.
Brown was recognized for his investigation that led to the seizure of over 100 grams of methamphetamine and two handguns. Ladage was recognized for his K-9 handling skills that have led to the seizure of over 800-thousand dollars, almost 400 grams of methamphetamine, over 1,000 grams of heroin and more. Nation was recognized for his investigation that led to the seizure of almost 150 grams of methamphetamine and over 250 grams of cannabis. Kettelkamp says these men are taking a chunk out of the drug problem in the area.
The three officers are all a part of the Central Illinois Enforcement Group, which is a multi-jurisdictional narcotics task force.
From left to right: Pana Chief of Police Daniel Bland, Illinois State Police Master Sergeant James Jackson (CIEG) Commander, Christian County Sheriff Bruce Kettelkamp, Christian County Sheriff Investigator Jeff Brown, and Illinois State Police Sergeant Brett Shearer (CIEG) Supervisor.
