CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – Charlottesville Police, along with the 3A Drug Task Force, have seized drugs and firearms in a Jan. 22 search warrant in the 500 block of 12th St. NW and arrested a 63-year old man in the process.

A CPD release reported the search warrant executed related to a narcotics and illegal firearms investigation led to the seizure of three firearms and approximately 51 grams of crack cocaine.

During the operation, Robert Nathaniel Tinsley Sr., a 63-year old Charlottesville resident, was taken into custody without incident and charged with possession of a Schedule I/II controlled substance with intent to distribute (second offense), possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and possession of a firearm while in possession of a Schedule I/II controlled substance.

Charlottesville Police Chief Mike Kochis emphasized the importance and risk in association with such work.

“Removing illegal firearms and dangerous narcotics from our streets is critical to keeping our community safe, and it is work that carries inherent risk for the officers involved,” said Chief Kochis.

“This investigation highlights the importance of strong partnerships with our regional law enforcement agencies and community partners.”

“Through continued collaboration, we are able to disrupt violent criminal activity and reduce the presence of weapons and drugs that threaten our neighborhoods,” Kochis said.