MT. CLEMENS, Mich. – Two people have been charged after police discovered that a “black-market drug operation” was allegedly being run out of a Macomb County home located near an elementary school.
The Sheriff’s Enforcement Team, which includes detectives from the sheriff’s office and the Warren Police Department, executed a search warrant at a residence on Grand Avenue in Mt. Clemens on Nov. 13, 2025.
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When they searched the home, they found the following items:
- About 225 grams of Etizolam (Schedule 1 controlled substance)
- Over 1,000 suspected pressed methamphetamine-fentanyl pills
- One pill press
- Variety of pill stamps
- About 1,300 grams of psilocybin “mushrooms”
- Ketamine
- Schedule III anabolic steroids
- Two pistols
- One car
- Large amount of narcotics packaging and distribution materials, including labels, vials and glass beakers.
The investigation revealed that a 52-year-old man was allegedly distributing suspected methamphetamine-fentanyl pills.
He is also accused of “using a false identity to operate a black-market drug operation” and buying chemicals overseas to “manufacture and distribute unregulated substances” in the Mt. Clemens area, according to the sheriff’s office.
The man, identified as Dennis Baran Jr., and 41-year-old Natalie Fraley were arrested in connection with the drug operation.
Baran faces several charges, including operating and maintaining a laboratory near specified places (20-year felony), three weapons-related charges, three delivery/manufacturing controlled substances charges, possessing analogues, obstructing by disguise and operating while license suspended, revoked or denied.
He is also being charged as a fourth-time habitual offender, which could bring the penalty of a life sentence for the primary offense, according to the sheriff’s office.
Baran was arraigned and given a $500,000 cash/surety bond, no 10%. If he is released, he must wear a GPS tether.
Fraley was charged with delivery/manufacture of a controlled substance (7-year felony) and possession of analogues (2-year felony).
She was arraigned and given a $50,000 personal bond. She also must wear a GPS tether.
“This investigation and these arrests reflect our unwavering commitment to keeping our neighborhoods—and especially our schools—safe," said Macomb County Sheriff Anthony Wickersham. “Conducting illegal drug activity anywhere is unacceptable, but doing so near an elementary school shows a blatant disregard for the safety of our children. The Macomb County Sheriff’s Office will continue to pursue those who threaten the well-being of this community.”