Kenosha Man Arrested in Major Drug Investigation, Faces Multiple Charges

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Lionel D. Jones (42) of Kenosha
(Kenosha County Sheriff)

Kenosha, Wis. – A 42-year-old Kenosha man is being held on a $10,000 cash bail and faces serious drug-related charges after his arrest on Monday. Authorities took Lionel D. Jones into custody following a narcotics investigation, with evidence linking him to drug trafficking near a school zone. If convicted, Jones faces a potential prison sentence of over 60 years.

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Arrest and Charges

On March 10, 2025, at approximately 12:34 p.m., Officer Carlos Gerena observed Jones in the uptown area and acted on probable cause related to an ongoing drug investigation. Officers approached and arrested Jones without incident.

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Jones was formally charged with the following offenses:

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Maintaining a Drug Trafficking Place near a School
Three counts of Manufacturing/Delivering Cocaine (≤1 gram) near a School
One count of Manufacturing/Delivering Cocaine (1–5 grams) near a School

He is scheduled for a preliminary hearing next Wednesday.

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Surveillance and Investigation

According to the criminal complaint, the investigation into Jones’ activities began in November 2024. Kenosha Police Detective Joshua Zeller set up surveillance in the 5900 block of 21st Avenue, following intelligence from the Special Investigations Unit (SIU) regarding a suspected cocaine supplier operating in the area.

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Over the course of several days, detectives observed multiple hand-to-hand drug exchanges near 5804 21st Avenue. On November 5, officers apprehended an individual named Curtis Thomas, who was found in possession of crack cocaine. Thomas admitted to purchasing the drugs from “Nel,” later identified as Jones, and provided officers with a phone number linked to him.

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Controlled Purchases Confirm Drug Trafficking

Detective Zeller and Officer Curi conducted four controlled drug purchases using a confidential source (CS). Each transaction was surveilled, recorded, and later analyzed:

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November 14, 2024: The CS purchased three baggies of crack cocaine (0.80 grams) from Jones inside the 5804 21st Avenue residence.
November 18, 2024: Another controlled purchase confirmed Jones’ role in distributing cocaine, with the CS obtaining 0.80 grams of crack cocaine for $60.
November 25, 2024: The CS made a third purchase, receiving three baggies of crack cocaine (0.60 grams) in exchange for cash.
November 26, 2024: The final controlled buy resulted in the CS obtaining 10 baggies of crack cocaine (2.3 grams) after following Jones upstairs at his residence.

Each of these transactions occurred within 1,000 feet of Frank Elementary School, heightening the severity of the charges.

Legal Consequences and Next Steps

Jones’ case highlights the city’s ongoing battle against narcotics distribution, especially in proximity to schools. Prosecutors are expected to push for a strong sentence given the evidence compiled by law enforcement. His next court appearance is scheduled for next week.

Authorities continue to encourage the community to report suspected drug activity as they work to keep Kenosha’s neighborhoods safe.

Author

Kevin Mathewson

Kevin Mathewson is a disciple of Christ, husband and a father to two wonderful children. Mathewson was born and raised in Lake County, IL and worked as a police & fire dispatcher from 2005 to 2010 in Round Lake Beach, IL. Mathewson moved to Kenosha County in 2006, later being elected to the position of Alderman of the 8th District in 2012 and 2016. Mathewson is a private investigator, security contractor, journalist, and photographer. He enjoys spending time with his family, watching movies, camping and boating. His favorite amendment is the second, followed closely by the first. He loves his country and community.

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4 Responses

Anonymous says:

March 12, 2025 at 11:06 AM

In the uptown neighborhood? No way!

Don’t worry. Those new apartments are going to transform that area.

5

Reply
Anonymous says:

March 12, 2025 at 12:34 PM

42?!?

2

Reply
1. Anonymous says:
  
  March 12, 2025 at 12:40 PM
  
  Clean living!
  
  3
  
  Reply
Anonymous says:

March 12, 2025 at 12:45 PM

Them people will never ever learn

1

Reply