NILES TOWNSHIP — A 41-year-old Niles Township man is suspected to have been involved in the sale and distribution of cocaine, following an open investigation initiated by police.

Elbert Briggs was arrested Sept. 26, and lodged at Berrien County Jail. He has been charged with two counts delivery of cocaine, possession with intent to deliver cocaine and maintaining a drug house. All are second offense charges, according to SWET.

The charges stem from an ongoing investigation launched by SWET- West detectives. A search warrant was executed at 1801 Ferry St. in Niles Township, with help from members of the Berrien County Sheriff Department, and Niles City Police.

SWET-West Detectives seized over an ounce of cocaine, money, and other items used in the sale and distribution of narcotics.

The Southwest Enforcement Team is comprised of sworn law enforcement personnel from the Michigan State Police, Berrien County Sheriff’s Office, Barry County Sheriff’s Office, Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office, Kalamazoo County Sheriff’s Office, Kalamazoo Township Police Department, South Haven Police Department, and Covert Police Department.

SWET is funded in part by the Michigan HIDTA (High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area) as well as the U.S. Department of Justice, Byrne JAG grant.