The investigation began in September 2024 after police received calls for service and anonymous tips alleging drug use and sales inside the restaurant on North Washington Street. Undercover officers made five separate cocaine purchases inside the business, three of which were conducted by employees while they were on duty, investigators said.
On Jan. 30, police executed search warrants at Abbey Burger and at the Aberdeen residence of Michael Wade, 42, where they recovered cocaine, drug distribution materials, and U.S. currency linked to drug sales. Additional drug evidence was found in employees’ possession at the restaurant, officials said.
Wade was charged with possession with intent to distribute cocaine and five counts of distribution, while Markeshia Freeman, 32, of Aberdeen, was charged with similar drug offenses along with obstruction and providing a false identity to police. Four others were charged via criminal summons for cocaine possession.
Authorities said the investigation remains active as they work to determine the full extent of the alleged drug activity.