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Tuesday, May 21, 2013
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Illegal drugs seized in Watertown recording studio raid

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A shop at Empsall Plaza, “Strong Productions,” was raided Wednesday morning by the Metro-Jeff Drug Force and Watertown police, and the shop owner was arrested on a drug possession charge.

Ervin J. Best, 43, of 217 S. Pleasant St. and Philadelphia, Pa., is charged with third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, a felony. Police said about an ounce of powder cocaine valued at $2,800, 10 grams of marijuana and $903 in cash were seized in the 10 a.m. raid.

Also seized were several rounds of pistol ammunition, an electric grinder, digital scales and packaging material, according to court documents.

“We’ve been aware of this guy for several months,” said the task force supervisor, Chris L. Cuppernell.

Mr. Best was taken to the Metro-Jefferson Public Safety Building, with bail set at $30,000 by Watertown City Judge Eugene R. Renzi. He was arraigned on the single charge, but additional charges are anticipated with grand jury action, Mr. Cuppernell said.

The investigation, which opened about four months ago, is continuing, Mr. Cuppernell said.

The store is “a reported recording studio,” police said in a press release.

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