Three Arrested for Distribution of Methamphetamine
In late July, the Organized Crime and Narcotics (OCN) Division received information about a possible distributor of methamphetamine and immediately began an investigative inquiry. Methamphetamine is listed as a Schedule II controlled substance by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration. Based on information obtained during the investigation, a suspect was identified who was allegedly distributing methamphetamine through a website used to arrange for casual sexual encounters between men.
An undercover detective created a profile on this website and within a few days, the suspect made contact through the website. After the initial exchange, the suspect communicated via text messaging. During the course of communication, the suspect advised that he could provide methamphetamine for sexual encounters. Undercover detectives agreed to meet the suspect for a group sexual encounter in exchange for methamphetamine. The suspect arranged to bring methamphetamine along with other men to the engagement.
On Thursday, August 4, the Street Crimes Unit (part of the Organized Crime and Narcotics Division) met the suspect at the Crowne Plaza Hotel located at 1960 Chain Bridge Road in Tysons Corner. The initial suspect was identified as Richard “Scott” Silverthorne, 50, of Fairfax. Silverthorne provided methamphetamine to the undercover detectives and was subsequently arrested and charged with felony distribution of methamphetamine and misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia. Silverthorne holds the office of Mayor of the City of Fairfax, Virginia, and is also employed as a substitute teacher for the Fairfax County Public Schools.
After the arrest of Silverthorne, detectives located his alleged suppliers and arrested Juan Jose Fernandez, 34, and Caustin Lee McLaughlin, 31, both of Maryland. Fernandez was charged with felony distribution of methamphetamine, felony possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, and misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia. McLaughlin was charged with felony distribution of methamphetamine, felony obstruction of justice, and misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia. During McLaughlin’s arrest, he physically resisted which resulted in a detective deploying his Electronic Control Weapon (ECW). There were no injuries. All arrestees were transported to the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center for processing.
Detectives would like to speak with anyone who may have related information regarding this investigation by calling 703-691-2131. Callers who wish to remain anonymous may provide information through Crime Solvers electronically by visiting www.fairfaxcrimesolvers.org or by calling 1-866-411-TIPS(8477).
MEDIA AVISORY:
Media are invited for an opportunity to be briefed by Captain Jack Hardin, Commander of the Organized Crime and Narcotics Division, and Major Ed O’Carroll, Director of the Public Affairs Bureau regarding the arrests of Silverthorne, Fernandez, and McLaughlin.
WHEN: Friday, August 5, at 9:30 a.m.
(Doors will be open at 9:00 a.m. to allow time for setup)
WHERE: Police Headquarters / Massey Building
4100 Chain Bridge Road; Fairfax, VA 22030
CONTACT: PFC Meg Hawkins at 703-246-2253
Note to our community: Tune in to our Facebook page around 9:30 a.m. to watch this event broadcast live: https://www.facebook.com/fairfaxcountypolice
Please continue to monitor @FairfaxPolice and our blog, www.fcpdnews.wordpress.com for the latest information regarding this investigation.
Fairfax County Police Department News 