HARRISBURG, PA — In a significant law enforcement collaboration, Attorney General Michelle Henry announced the arrest of a Philadelphia man and the confiscation of over $80,000 worth of narcotics alongside multiple illegal loaded firearms. The investigation stemmed from a report of identity theft.
Ronald Marsh, 31, was taken into custody earlier this month. He faces several charges, including identity theft, forgery, possession of narcotics with the intent to distribute, persons not to possess firearms, and fleeing and eluding.
A joint effort involving the U.S. Marshal’s Violent Crime Fugitive Task Force, the Attorney General’s Gun Violence Task Force (GVTF), and the Philadelphia Police Department led to Marsh’s apprehension on August 8, 2024. Investigators uncovered that Marsh had utilized a false identity to secure a lease for an apartment in Philadelphia. During a subsequent search of the premises, authorities found one pound of suspected methamphetamine, nine pounds of marijuana, and twenty-two packets of heroin/fentanyl. They also recovered several loaded firearms and thousands of dollars in cash. The total value of the seized narcotics is estimated at $80,000.
“This defendant had a sophisticated system to steal someone’s identity and use it while trafficking dangerous weapons and drugs,” stated Attorney General Henry. “This case exemplifies the relentless dedication and collaboration of our law enforcement partners and sends a strong message to those engaging in criminal conduct — we will work together to dismantle dangerous activity and seek justice.”
In July 2024, the GVTF began scrutinizing the rental approval process for Marsh’s apartment. Investigations revealed that Marsh was leasing the apartment using a stolen Pennsylvania Driver’s License. When law enforcement executed a search warrant at his residence, Marsh attempted to flee, leading officers on a pursuit. He abandoned multiple vehicles, which were subsequently searched, uncovering additional narcotics, cash, and fraudulent debit cards.
Arraigned on August 10, 2024, Marsh is currently detained in the Philadelphia Prison System with bail set at $1,000,000.
Deputy Attorney General Christopher Dey is handling the prosecution of the case. It is important to note that all charges are accusations, and Marsh is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. The investigation remains ongoing.
Information, a criminal complaint, or an arrest is not a declaration of guilt. A suspect, arrestee, or defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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