HOUGHTON, BARAGA COUNTIES, Mich. (WZMQ) – Two arrests have been made following an extensive drug investigation across Baraga and Houghton counties.
For the last several months, detectives from the Upper Peninsula Substance Enforcement Team (UPSET) have investigated two men believed to be distributing crystal meth, cocaine and fentanyl in both counties. On February 5, 2026, detectives at UPSET executed three search warrants at known drug houses and arrested two men who were suspected of distributing in the area.
The first search warrant was executed at a residence in Dollar Bay, Michigan, where detectives seized methamphetamine, electronic devices, and $650 in cash. Bredon Hanks, a 27-year-old man, was arrested and lodged on charges relating to the distribution of meth and cocaine. Hicks was lodged in Houghton County Jail.
The second search warrant was executed at a residence in Hancock. During a search of the residence detectives seized MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy, fentanyl compounds and carfentanil, noted in the release as “a powerful synthetic opioid 100 times more potent than fentanyl.” Detectives also seized counterfeit pills, electronic devices and $430 in cash.
Michael Jestila, a 60-year-old man from Houghton County was arrested for delivery of meth. Jestila was lodged in the Baraga County Jail. A third search warrant was executed at a residence in Baraga County that was believed to be owned by Jestila. User amounts of cocaine and meth were seized.
In total detectives seized over a quarter pound of crystal meth, an ounce of cocaine and user amounts on MDMA and fentanyl. These drugs hold a street value of over $15,000.
The investigation remains ongoing.
