Annapolis Police Arrest 7 in Undercover Drug Operation

said the department’s Drug Enforcement Unit arrested seven men as the result of a two-month-long citywide drug operation that included undercover police officers buying drugs.

According to a release from the department, officers posing as drug users purchased illegal narcotics directly from the men they arrested.

"The detectives did an outstanding job during this investigation, which culminated in the arrest of seven people," Chief Michael Pristoop said in the release. "Violence is often associated with the illegal drug trade and as a result of this investigation we reduced the possibility that these guys will be involved as either a victim or a suspect."

Police said they expect more arrests to follow as a result of the operation. Police made the arrests on Feb. 9 and 14.

The department worked with the Anne Arundel County State’s Attorney’s Office to obtain sealed criminal indictments for those arrested.

According to police, those arrested on Feb. 9 are:

• Kevin Andrew Hopkins, 24, of the 400 block of Glen Mar Circle, Glen Burnie.
• Ryzon Donya McGowan, 20, of the 2000 block of Forest Drive, Annapolis.
• Rondell Carl Johnson, 24, of the 1300 block of Tyler Avenue, Annapolis.
• Donte Anthony Beans, 20, of the 1000 block of Cedar Ridge Court, Annapolis.
• Dante Antwione Freeland, 23, of the 1500 block of Cherry Street, Curtis Bay.
• Vashon Lamont Henson, 37, of the 1100 block of Madison Street, Annapolis.

According to police, one man was arrested on Feb. 14:

• Keithan Dwayne Howard, 41, of Pleasant Street, Annapolis.

Each person was charged with distribution of a controlled substance, according to the release.

Beans and Freeland face additional charges after drugs were found in their possession at the time of their arrest, police said.

Beans also was charged with possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute and possession of a controlled substance not marijuana. Freeland was charged with possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute and possession of a controlled substance.

Beans and Freeland both posted $25,000 bond and were released from the detention center pending trial.