Law enforcement officials in Shelby Township, Michigan, have carried out one of the most significant drug seizures in the community’s history, confiscating nearly 1,000 pounds of illegal marijuana during a large-scale investigation.
The operation was conducted on March 13 when the Shelby Township Police Department’s Tactical Response Unit, working alongside the Drug Enforcement Administration, executed a search warrant at a residence in Macomb County. The warrant followed weeks of investigation by the department’s Special Investigations Unit, which had received intelligence about a suspected multi-state black-market drug distribution network allegedly operating from the home.
After conducting surveillance and gathering evidence over several weeks, authorities moved in and uncovered a substantial cache of drugs, weapons, and cash.
Items Seized During the Operation
Officers reported confiscating:
- 964 pounds of black-market marijuana
- 83 pounds of marijuana-infused edibles
- 20,300 marijuana vape cartridges
- 15 firearms
- Approximately 90 pounds of ammunition
- $27,364 in cash
According to officials, the marijuana seizure ranks as the second-largest illegal drug confiscation in the department’s 72-year history.
Arrest and Charges Filed
The investigation resulted in the arrest of 51-year-old Joseph Zouhair Foumia of Shelby Township. He was arraigned in 41-A District Court on multiple charges, including one weapons-related offense and four drug-related counts. Among the allegations is maintaining a drug house.
Court records indicate that bond was set at $100,000. A probable cause conference is scheduled for March 30, followed by a preliminary examination on April 6.
Police Statement
Shelby Township Police Chief Robert J. Shelide emphasized the broader impact of the operation, stating that the case was not only about removing drugs from circulation but also about safeguarding families and improving community safety. He noted that the seizure significantly disrupted what authorities believe was a major illegal distribution network.
The investigation remains ongoing as law enforcement continues to examine the scope of the alleged operation and any additional individuals who may be connected.
