Police make three arrests after investigation into drug, firearms sales

COLUMBIA — Three men were arrested Friday as part of an ongoing investigation by the Columbia Police Department’s Narcotics Unit and Street Crimes Unit into the illegal sales of drugs and firearms, Columbia police Sgt. Dan Beckman said.

At about 4 p.m., undercover officers purchased about 3 grams of cocaine and a .25-caliber Lorcin handgun from Terrance L. Williams, 22, in a parking lot located at 220 N. Tenth St. Both Williams and Donte R. Hardin, 20, were arrested upon the completion of the transaction on suspicion of their involvement in this and previous illegal drug sales occurring during the two-week investigation, Beckman said.  

According to a Police Department news release, Williams was arrested on suspicion of three counts of distribution of a controlled substance near schools and the unlawful transfer of weapons. Hardin was arrested on suspicion of distribution of a controlled substance near schools, operating a motor vehicle with a revoked license and resisting arrest.  

About three hours later, officers were tipped off to a drug sale in a parking lot located at 2001 W. Worley St. This resulted in the arrest of Christopher D. Turner, 32, for the possession of 7 grams of crack cocaine, which he attempted to destroy while resisting officers, Beckman said.  

Turner was arrested on suspicion of second-degree trafficking, tampering with physical evidence and resisting arrest.

Anyone with information is encouraged to submit tips on the CrimeStoppers Web site, 875tips.com.