U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo has announced the arrest of Celina Serva, also known as "Ce Ce," a 26-year-old from Akron, Ohio. Serva faces charges of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. If convicted, she could face a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years, a maximum life sentence, and a $10 million fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Donna Duncan stated that the investigation began on March 28, 2025, focusing on the sale and distribution of narcotics in Ellicott. This investigation was conducted by the DEA, the Southern Tier Regional Drug Task Force, and the Jamestown Metro Drug Task Force. It involved surveillance and controlled purchases of narcotics. On April 3, investigators executed a search warrant at an Ellicott residence, seizing controlled substances, a shotgun, and a large sum of cash. Serva was later identified as the supplier and arrested the same day while attempting to deliver methamphetamine to the residence, with 975 grams of suspected crystal methamphetamine discovered in her possession.
Following her arrest, Serva made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer. She is being held in custody pending a detention hearing.
This case is part of "Operation Take Back America," an initiative by the Department of Justice aimed at curbing illegal immigration, eliminating cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protecting communities from violent crime. The operation utilizes resources from the Department's Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
The complaint against Serva resulted from investigations led by several law enforcement agencies, including the Drug Enforcement Administration, Southern Tier Regional Drug Task Force, Jamestown Police Department, Lakewood-Busti Police Department, Chautauqua County Sheriff's Office, and the Ellicott Police Department.
"The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty."