Search Warrant in Rome Results in Drug Seizure and Three Arrests

On September 2, 2026, at approximately 5:30 a.m., members of the New York State Police Troop D Violent Gang & Narcotics Enforcement Team (VGNET), with assistance from the State Police Special Operations Response Team (SORT), K9 Unit, Computer Crimes Technology Unit-North, the Rome Police Department, and the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office, executed a search warrant at a residence on West Liberty Street in the city of Rome.

As a result of the search, investigators seized approximately six ounces of crystal methamphetamine, approximately $3,546 in U.S. currency, digital scales containing residue, and packaging materials.

James Mitchell, age 39, and Jule A. Shaw, age 42, were each charged with:

• Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the 2nd Degree, a class A-II felony

• Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the 3rd Degree with intent to sell, a class B felony

• Criminal Use of Drug Paraphernalia in the 2nd Degree

Mitchell and Shaw were transported to the Oneida County Jail to await centralized arraignment.

Keith R. Westcott Jr., age 42, was also taken into custody on a parole absconder warrant issued by New York State Parole. Westcott is currently on parole for a prior conviction of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the 3rd Degree.

The investigation remains ongoing.