The seized weapons, drugs, and cash in Annapolis.

By Zak Failla From Daily Voice

What started as a report of shots fired in Maryland landed a man behind bars after officers uncovered a small arsenal in Anne Arundel County, police say.

On Thursday morning, members of the Annapolis Police Department conducted a follow-up investigation into a recent "shots fired" call, which led to the recovery of multiple illegal firearms, assault weapons, and a host of drugs.

According to the agency, the investigation began on Monday, Nov. 10, when there were reports of shots being fired that led them to identify 27-year-old resident Juan Ricardo Mackell, who was taken into custody shortly after midnight on Nov. 13.

Police say that during a subsequent search, officers recovered three assault rifles, a submachine gun, and four handguns. They also seized marijuana, PCP, and heroin. 

Mackell was taken to the Anne Arundel County Central Booking facility, where he is facing "numerous felony and misdemeanor charges related to both the illegal possession of firearms and the possession and distribution of controlled dangerous substances." 

Annapolis Police Chief Ed Jackson marveled at the number of guns that were recovered during the bust.

"The sheer volume and type of weaponry recovered in this single operation are extremely concerning, and this arrest undoubtedly saves lives,” he said. “I am immensely proud of our officers and detectives who meticulously worked the initial shots fired call to successfully remove eight illegal firearms and narcotics from our community." 

"This is a clear demonstration of our commitment to interrupting the cycle of violence.”