A Kalamazoo man identified by investigators as a major methamphetamine distributor in Southwest Michigan is in custody after a lengthy narcotics investigation that led to the seizure of about 50 pounds of crystal methamphetamine.

Michigan State Police released a statement late last week saying detectives with the Southwest Enforcement Team, or SWET, took enforcement action on May 21 following a months-long investigation into a 31-year-old man suspected of being one of the region’s largest narcotics distributors.

Investigators say they observed the suspect meeting with an alleged source of supply before the Berrien County Sheriff’s Office attempted a traffic stop. Police say the vehicle fled, leading deputies on a pursuit before spike strips were deployed on U.S. 31 near Berrien Springs, disabling the vehicle. The suspect then ran from the scene on foot.

Authorities launched an extensive search involving K-9 units, drone operators, and perimeter teams. After about eight hours of searching, a suspect identified as Samuel Sayvon Graves was taken into custody.

Detectives say they recovered approximately 50 pounds of crystal methamphetamine from the vehicle. The suspect was treated at a local hospital before being lodged in the Berrien County Jail on charges that include possession with intent to deliver methamphetamine, fleeing and eluding police, and resisting and obstructing officers.

State police say the suspect was also wanted on an outstanding felony warrant from Van Buren County tied to a previous fleeing and eluding incident connected to the investigation. Investigators say he was also out on bond in Kent County in connection with an April firearms-related arrest in Grand Rapids.

Multiple agencies assisted in the operation, including the DEA, Berrien County Sheriff’s Office, Benton Harbor Department of Public Safety, Berrien Springs-Oronoko Township Police Department, Pokagon Tribal Police, and the Michigan State Police Fifth District Crime Prevention Squad.