5/21/2024

IRONWOOD – In information released yesterday an Ironwood man on parole was arrested on May 6 for operating under the influence of controlled substances and possession of methamphetamine.  Last month, the Gogebic Iron Area Narcotics team, known as GIANT received information that Brian Panek of Ironwood was involved in distributing methamphetamine throughout the Gogebic County Area.  GIANT Investigators learned that Panek had driven to Lower Michigan to pick up methamphetamine for distribution in Gogebic County. Upon Panek returning to Gogebic County GIANT Investigators stopped Panek and placed him under arrest for violating his parole and operating while under the influence of controlled substances.  Officers found just over 100 grams of methamphetamine inside the vehicle with a street value of $10,000.  Panek is being charged with 5 felonies in this case.    Panek is currently lodged at the Gogebic County Sheriff Department on a $25,000 Cash Bond. The Michigan Department of Corrections has also placed a hold on Panek, so he can only be released from jail with their authorization.  Panek was released from prison in August of 2022 for possession of methamphetamine and unlawfully driving away an automobile in Mecosta County, in downstate Michigan, and was on parole at the time of his arrest.