Federal charges in Manitowoc County drug busts

April 4, 2023

Two men charged in separate Manitowoc Metro Drug Unit investigations

The Brillion News

MANITOWOC COUNTY – Two Manitowoc County men have been federally charged in separate investigations by the Manitowoc Metro Drug Unit.

On March 21st, the United States Attorney's Office - Eastern District of Wisconsin charged 43-year-old James M. Gremore from Two Rivers and 39-year-old Moises Perez-Ochoa from Ellsworth with felony charges after a grand jury indictment.

Gremore was charged with four counts including distribution of fentanyl, possession with intent to deliver 40 grams or more of fentanyl and felon in possession of a firearm/transport in interstate commerce.

In December 2022, Metro Drug Unit investigators conducted a search warrant at a storage facility on Manitowoc's north side locating numerous stolen firearms and drug paraphernalia. Additionally, investigators conducted controlled purchases of fentanyl and methamphetamine from James Gremore in the city of Two Rivers.

In January 2023, investigators conducted a search warrant at Gremore's residence on Lincoln Street in the city of Two Rivers. Investigators located approximately 49 grams of fentanyl and items indicative of drug distribution. James Gremore was currently out on bail as a result of multiple, felony drug-related charges from July 2022 in Manitowoc County.

Perez-Ochoa was charged with two counts of distribution of methamphetamine of 500 grams or more. The indictment alleges Perez-Ochoa knowingly and intentionally distributed 500 grams or more on or about Dec. 20, 2022 and Feb. 8, 2023. Investigators conducted controlled purchases of methamphetamine from Perez-Ochoa in December and February at a residence in the city of Manitowoc.

Manitowoc County Metro Drug Unit was assisted by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and Two Rivers Police Department.

Both individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty.