A Slidell-area couple has been arrested and booked with multiple charges for drugs and dog fighting, following an investigation by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Task Force.
On Wednesday, the STPSO Narcotics Task Force executed a search warrant at the couple’s Slidell-area residence.
During the search, investigators discovered and seized approximately 419.7 grams of cocaine, approximately 28 grams of marijuana, seven bottles of promethazine, assorted drug paraphernalia indicative of narcotics distribution, a money-counting machine, $2,066 in cash, and four vehicles.
Several pit bulls were also located on the property, some of which appeared to have facial and head lacerations commonly associated with illegal dog fighting. St. Tammany Parish Animal Services was contacted, resulting in the seizure of 15 dogs from the property.
Prior to executing the search warrant, detectives followed Michael Ratcliff, 40, from the residence and took him into custody without incident. Ratcliff’s live in girlfriend, Antinette Johnson, 29, was located at the residence and was also taken into custody without incident.
Seven children, ranging from 4 to 12 years old, were also present at the home. The children were released into the care of family members.
Ratcliff was booked into the St. Tammany Parish Jail on the following charges:
Possession with the Intent to Distribute Cocaine, more than 400 grams; Possession with the Intent to Distribute Marijuana; Possession of a Legend Drug without a Prescription; Possession of Drug Paraphernalia; Transactions Involving Proceeds from Drug Offenses; Illegal Use of a Controlled Dangerous Substance in the Presence of a Minor; Dog Fighting; Cruelty to Animals; Obstruction of Justice and Fugitive/Probation Violation
Johnson was booked into the St. Tammany Parish Jail on the following charges:
Possession with the Intent to Distribute Cocaine 200 grams or more but less than 400 grams; Possession with the Intent to Distribute Marijuana; Possession of a Legend Drug without a Prescription; Possession of Drug Paraphernalia; Transactions Involving Proceeds from Drug Offenses; Illegal Use of a Controlled Dangerous Substance in the Presence of a Minor; Dog Fighting and Cruelty to Animals
The STPSO Narcotics Task Force is composed of detectives from the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, Mandeville Police Department and Slidell Police Department.
