The Grand Rapids Police Department (GRPD) made a major drug bust in Grandville on March 3, arresting 53-year-old Darrell Mitchell in possession of 500 grams of purified fentanyl and 250 grams of black tar heroin.
Drug Bust Details
GRPD officers raided an apartment as part of a long-term drug investigation and discovered:
500 grams of fentanyl (enough to kill the entire population of Grand Rapids and Grandville)
250 grams of black tar heroin
Cutting agents, a digital scale, and a respirator
Mitchell was charged with possession with intent to deliver (PWID) fentanyl, a serious felony that could lead to decades in prison.
Ongoing Investigation & Law Enforcement Response
GRPD Deputy Chief Mike Maycroft stated:
“This operation was part of an ongoing, monthslong investigation aimed at disrupting the flow of illegal drugs into our community.”
GRPD Chief Eric Winstrom added:
“I have no doubt this fentanyl was destined for illegal sale and would have led to numerous deaths in West Michigan.”
Authorities anticipate additional arrests as the investigation continues.
Mitchell’s Extensive Criminal History
Court records show that Mitchell has a long history of drug-related offenses dating back to 1988. Some of his past arrests include:
1999 – Convicted of felony drug possession and fleeing police
2000s – Served 17 years in federal prison for PWID cocaine, released in January 2024
2024-2029 – Currently on federal parole
Now, with his latest high-profile drug bust, Mitchell faces the possibility of returning to federal prison for years to come.
