1 charged in connection with stolen electronics, drug investigation

BELMONT COUNTY, Ohio --


A Bellaire man is charged as part of an ongoing investigation involving possible stolen electronics.

Benjamin Primis, of Bellaire, remained in the Belmont County Jail on numerous charges on Friday. The Belmont County Sheriff's Office said officials are not releasing what the charges are against Primis until next week.

Investigators said the Martins Ferry Police Department recently became aware of possible stolen properly. Chief John McFarland said officers used that information to obtain a search warrant for a house at 4553 Harrison St. in Bellaire.

There, police confiscated several electronic devices believed to be stolen, an estimated 100 prescription medication pills, $7,800 in cash and a small amount of marijuana.

The electronics included a stolen 46-inch television and five PlayStation 3 gaming systems. Police said they have reason to believe the property is part of a scheme related to drug deals.

"We believe it's a possibility that people were taking stolen items to them in exchange for what we believe are prescription medications," McFarland said.

As of Friday afternoon, only one PlayStation 3 had been confirmed stolen from a Martins Ferry residence. Police asked anyone missing one of the gaming systems or the television to contact the police department.

The Belmont County Sheriff's Office is also working on other details of the case. Stay with NEWS9, WTOV9.com and WTOV9 Mobile for continuing coverage.