NEWS RELEASE

For further information please contact: Sergeant Brent J. Bernhardt
(660) 385-2132
B08072
July 3, 2008

EMPHASIS: Hannibal Residents Arrested On Drug Charges


On July 2, 2008, at approximately 4:30 p.m., Gregory A. Celenze, 45, and Mary E. Fitzpatrick, 52, both of Hannibal, Missouri, were arrested at their residence located at 211 North 8th Street, in Hannibal, Missouri.
Following an anonymous tip provided to local law enforcement authorities, members of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Hannibal Police Department Narcotics Unit, and the Northeast Missouri Drug Task Force made contact with Celenze and Fitzpatrick at their residence. During a consent search, officers located nine growing marijuana plants and other items used in the cultivation of marijuana in the basement of the residence.
Celenze and Fitzpatrick were both arrested on the following charges: felony producing a controlled substance (marijuana) 2,000 feet from a school; felony possession of a controlled substance; misdemeanor possession of marijuana; and possession of drug paraphernalia. They were taken to the Hannibal Police Department and later released pending issuance of an arrest warrant.
The charges for which the above individuals were arrested are mere accusations and are not evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of the charges must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.
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