Manitowoc, WI — On Thursday, Manitowoc County investigators arrested a man and a woman after a routine traffic stop resulted in the discovery of approximately one‑quarter pound of methamphetamine. The suspects, identified as 37‑year‑old Charles Zitzer and Stacey Tadych, are now being held at the Manitowoc County Jail on felony drug‑related charges.
Investigation background
The arrests stem from an ongoing investigation by the Metro Drug Unit. Authorities received a tip indicating that Zitzer was involved in the distribution of illegal drugs within Manitowoc County. Zitzer was already on federal parole after his release from federal custody related to a prior drug investigation conducted by the same Metro Drug Unit.
Surveillance and traffic stop
Earlier in the day, Metro Drug Unit agents conducted surveillance of Zitzer and Tadych as they traveled to Milwaukee. Upon their return to Manitowoc County, the Manitowoc County Sheriff’s Office initiated a traffic stop of their vehicle. During the stop, the department’s K‑9 unit, led by a dog named Knox, alerted officers to the presence of contraband inside the vehicle.
Seizure and charges
Following the K‑9 alert, deputies searched the vehicle and recovered roughly one‑quarter pound of methamphetamine along with drug‑distribution paraphernalia. Both Zitzer and Tadych were taken into custody and charged with felony offenses related to the possession and intended distribution of methamphetamine.
Next steps
The Manitowoc County Sheriff’s Office has placed both individuals in the county jail pending further court proceedings. The case remains under the jurisdiction of local law‑enforcement agencies, with the Metro Drug Unit continuing its broader effort to disrupt drug trafficking networks in the region.
Community members are reminded that the department encourages anyone with information about illegal drug activity to contact the Manitowoc County Sheriff’s Office or the Metro Drug Unit.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
