Downstate man arrested on multiple drug counts

ST. IGNACE — A downstate man has been arrested on multiple drug charges after police say they purchased cocaine from him.

The Tri-County Drug Enforcement Taskforce (Tri-Dent) arrested 37-year-old Sammy Laporta III of Flint on Thanksgiving Day. Police say that Laporta transported the cocaine from lower Michigan just prior to the purchase.

Laporta is charged with five felony counts, including delivery of cocaine and possession of marijuana. Two small pre-teen children were in the vehicle with Laporta while he transported and delivered cocaine.

Child Protective Services was called in to assist with the investigation. Additional arrests and charges are expected pending a review of the investigation by the prosecutor.