Two Columbus Officers Arrested for Their Involvement in Distributing Fentanyl

Two Columbus officers were arrested for their involvement in a drug trafficking scheme.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Southern District of Ohio has accused narcotics officers John J. Kotchkoski, 33, and Marco Merino, 44 of helping sell and distribute 7.5 kilograms of fentanyl.

Federal investigators say that Merino tried to recruit an informant to participate in the illegal activity, and even went so far as to offer him protection from other law enforcement agencies.

It was also reported that Merino attempted to gain citizenship in Mexico in plans to launder drug money. In July, it was reported that he went back to Mexico to try to obtain property to run as Airbnb’s.

Courts documents show that between March and September, Merino accepted $44,000 in cash to protect shipments of at least 27 kilograms of cocaine, however, the shipments were empty, and federal agents controlled each transaction.

Authorities say that his partner Kotchkoski made himself available by radio during the transportation of the purported drugs. They said he allegedly agreed “to make any calls that Merino might need, including to other law enforcement officials, to protect the safe transportation of the cocaine.”

In June and August of this year, Kotchkoski provided Merino with the aforementioned fentanyl. Police say that Merino would make an estimated $60,000-$80,000 for the sale of the drug.

Both officers have been relieved of their duties pending the outcome of the case.

“These allegations are beyond disturbing. If proven, such actions would violate the oath our officers take, the standards we must hold ourselves to, and the trust of the public …” Bryant said in a statement. “We have, and will continue to, work cooperatively with federal authorities. Because this is an ongoing investigation, I cannot comment further on these cases. This alleged conduct does not reflect the values of this division or the excellent work being done by its employees. I will say it again: when my officers do what’s right, I will always have their back. When they don’t, they will be held accountable.”