Fernley man charged in search for drugs

A Fernley man remained in custody Monday on suspicion of selling methamphetamine.

Steven Allen Hart, 54, was being held in the Lyon County Jail on suspicion of felony possession of methamphetamine for sale, possession of methamphetamine, possession of a controlled substance, maintaining a residence for the purpose of use or sale of methamphetamine, ex-felon in possession of a firearm and misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia.

According to the Lyon County Sheriff's Office, the narcotics division conducted a 10-month investigation into the alleged sale of methamphetamine by members of the motorcycle club known as the Branded Few, of which Hart was a member.

Through their surveillance, enough evidence was gathered for the issuance of a search warrant at 102 Diamond Way in Fernley. The location is allegedly the clubhouse for the Desert Chapter of the Branded Few, according to Lt. Robert Sherlock.

On Jan. 28, narcotics officers along with the Lyon County SWAT team entered the residence. The search allegedly resulted in the recovery of methamphetamine, a 9mm handgun, drug paraphernalia and numerous illegal prescription drugs.

Hart, who lived at the home, was arrested at the scene.

Sherlock said the investigation is continuing, "due to information on other Branded Few gang members."

Hart is being held on $36,132 bail.

n Contact reporter F.T. Norton at ftnorton@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1213.