HOPE — A search warrant served on a Buzzell Hill Road home in Hope turned up alleged evidence of heroin trafficking activities and lead to the arrests of brothers Richard and John Stanton Thursday.

Armed with a warrant obtained as a result of an investigation into the distribution of heroin from the residence over several months, Maine Drug Enforcement agents, State Police troopers, Knox County Sheriff’s deputies and Maine wardens searched the residence March 13 and seized about 20 grams of heroin in various sized packages. According to state Department of Public Safety spokesman Steve McCausland, the drugs were found on both Richard Stanton, 27, and John Stanton, 23, and within the house.

Along with the heroin, agents also seized about $2,500 cash, packaging material and scales used to weight the drug before and packaging for sale.

Both men have been charged with aggravated trafficking in heroin. The charges are enhanced due to the residence being sited within 1,000 feet of Hope Elementary School on adjacent Highfield Road.

The Stanton brothers were arrested Thursday night and taken to Knox County jail. Richard Stanton’s bail was set at $25,000 cash. McCausland said at the time of his arrest, Richard Stanton was on federal probation for a U.S. Currency counterfeiting conviction. Bail for John Stanton was set at $10,000 cash.

The street value of the heroin agents seized Thursday was estimated to be just over $12,000. McCausland said that during the investigation, it was determined the source of the heroin was allegedly from southern New England.

Maine Drug Enforcement Supervisor James Pease, in a press release Friday, requested that anyone suspecting drug trafficking, or who has information about illegal drugs or drug trafficking in the Midcoast to call a local law enforcement agency or the MDEA at 594-6188.

Editorial Director Holly S. Edwards can be reached at hollyedwards@penbaypilot.com or 706-6655.