Lengthy Investigation Uncovers Drug Distribution Operation in Grant County

In October 2022, Detectives with the Richland-Iowa-Grant Drug Task Force began receiving information that Bradley C. Burgess (25) of Platteville was involved in the distribution of multiple illegal substances, mainly methamphetamine and suboxone in Southwest Wisconsin and the City of Dubuque. Suboxone is typically prescribed to people to treat opioid addiction, however when used incorrectly it is abused by people and has similar affects to the opioids it is designed to help treat addiction for. Bradley Burgess was released from the Wisconsin Prison System in September 2022 and was placed on parole for prior convictions that include Possession with Intent to Deliver methamphetamine and Possession with Intent to Deliver THC.

Throughout the investigation, a significant amount of information was gathered. As a result, on 2-28-2023 Detectives with the Drug Task Force made contact with and arrested Bradley Burgess in the City of Platteville. There were two other occupants in Burgess’ vehicle at the time contact was made, Ryan W. Drew (39) of Rewey (who was also on active probation) and Gabrielle E. Laban (26) of Dubuque. A search of Burgess’ vehicle and the property was conducted. As a result, Detectives located a loaded firearm, methamphetamine, suboxone, marijuana, drug paraphernalia and what Detectives believe to be counterfeit (fake) oxycodone pills suspected to contain fentanyl.

As a result of this investigation, Bradley Burgess will have the following charges referred to the Grant County District Attorney’s Office:

• Delivery of Methamphetamine 10-50grams
• Possession W/Intent methamphetamine greater than 50grams
• Possess Firearm- Person Convicted of a Felony
• Possession W/Intent Schedule III
• Possession W/Intent Fentanyl
• Possession of Marijuana 2nd +
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Burgess is currently being held at the Grant County Jail on a Parole violation and additionally, is now facing a potential probation revocation. Ryan Drew was arrested on a probation violation. Gabrielle Laban was arrested on an outstanding warrant.

During the course of this investigation, the Richland-Iowa-Grant Drug Task Force was assisted by personnel from multiple agencies including: The Grant County Sheriff’s Office, Platteville Police Department, State Line Area Narcotics team, and the Dubuque Drug Task Force.