(WNY News Now) – PANAMA, NY – A parole check at a residence on School Street in Panama led to a narcotics seizure and the arrest of a local man on multiple drug charges, authorities said.
On March 20, 2025, narcotics investigators from the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office and the Dunkirk Police Department assisted parole officers after suspected narcotics were discovered at 9 School St. A search warrant was obtained from the Town of Harmony Court, leading to the seizure of 30.5 grams of methamphetamine, 1.0 grams of fentanyl, and drug paraphernalia, including scales and packaging materials used for distribution.
James F. Chase, 37, was arrested and charged with:
- Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance 3rd (B felony)
- Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance 4th (C felony)
- Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance 7th (A misdemeanor)
- Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia 2nd (A misdemeanor)
Chase was transported to the Chautauqua County Jail for the Centralized Arraignment Program. As are all persons accused of a crime, the accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Authorities urge residents to report suspicious drug activity to local law enforcement. The Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Investigators Tip Line can be reached at 800-344-8702 or 716-664-2420. The Dunkirk Police Department Tip Line is 716-363-0313.
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