Federal law enforcement officials have arrested two individuals in connection with a significant drug and weapons seizure in the Chicago suburbs. James Howard, 32, of Frankfort, and Shantel Robinson, 31, of Oak Lawn, have been charged in federal court with drug conspiracy after authorities uncovered multiple kilograms of fentanyl and approximately 25 firearms.
The investigation began last week when federal agents discovered around 1.5 kilograms of suspected fentanyl and nearly 850 grams of suspected cocaine concealed in a comfort blanket package that Howard allegedly placed in a communal area of Robinson’s apartment complex. This discovery led law enforcement to search Robinson’s apartment, where they found multiple firearms and evidence indicating that the residence was used as a drug laboratory.
Following the initial search, a court authorized a further investigation of Howard’s home and a storage unit leased by Robinson in Alsip. During this search, authorities uncovered additional drugs, drug manufacturing equipment, and firearms, including two packages containing Glock “conversion devices.” These devices are designed to modify handguns to enable them to fire multiple rounds with a single trigger pull.
Both suspects are expected to appear in court on Friday as the investigation continues. This operation highlights ongoing efforts by federal law enforcement to combat the distribution of dangerous drugs and firearms in the region.
The information for this report was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Illinois, underscoring the seriousness of the charges and the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies in addressing drug-related crime and public safety concerns in the community.
