Man Arrested In Connection To Fentanyl And Meth Sales

FRANKLIN, N.H. – A Franklin man is facing charges related to sales of suspected fentanyl and crack cocaine following a monthslong investigation by the New Hampshire State Police Narcotics Investigations Unit (NIU).

During the investigation, approximately 1,300 grams of suspected fentanyl, approximately 500 grams of suspected methamphetamine, two firearms and approximately $5,000 of U.S. currency were seized.

On Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025, State Troopers arrested Michael Brownell, 39, of Franklin, on five counts of sale of controlled drugs in excess of 5 ounces, four counts of sale of controlled drugs in excess of 5 ounces, two counts of possession of controlled drugs, transporting drugs in a motor vehicle and two counts of felon in possession of a dangerous weapon. Brownell was held at the Merrimack County Department of Corrections and arraigned in Laconia Circuit Court on Jan. 24, 2025. He remains held on preventative detention.

During the arrest of Brownell, Kaitlyn Blake (Woodbury), 32, of Belmont, was also taken into custody on outstanding electronic bench warrants out of the Plymouth Circuit Court and Laconia Circuit Court for motor vehicle related charges. Blake was booked and processed at the Franklin Police Department. She was held at the Merrimack County Department of Corrections pending appearances in Plymouth Circuit Court and Laconia Circuit Court. 

The New Hampshire State Police Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team provided assistance during the investigation. This case is being prosecuted by the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office.

Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is asked to contact Lt. Shane W. Larkin of the Narcotics Investigations Unit at (603) 234-0707. Anonymous tips can be sent to nabdope@dos.nh.gov.