Officers conducting surveillance on a felon, who was on parole, arrested the man after spotting him committing a drug deal in McHenry County, prosecutors said.
Cameron J. Ratcliff, 39, of the 1300 block of 7th Street in Harvard, was charged with possession of 100-400 grams of cocaine with intent to distribute, possession of 100-400 grams of cocaine, unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon, unlawful possession of firearm ammunition by a felon, delivery of a controlled substance and possession of a controlled substance.
Ratcliff was observed on March 3 committing what appeared to be a narcotics transaction, according to a motion filed in court.
Ratcliff was under surveillance by the McHenry County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Task Force.
The motion said officers conducted a traffic stop and found Ratcliff in possession of cocaine and approximately $1,500 cash.
A search warrant was later executed at Ratcliff’s residence where 105 grams of cocaine, which has a street value of $10,500, was located, according to the motion.
Police also found a Taurus handgun and several 9mm bullets in Ratcliff’s possession, according to a criminal complaint.
Ratcliff has numerous felony convictions for robbery, drug offenses, obstructing justice and more, court records show.
Records from the Illinois Department of Corrections show Ratcliff was released from prison on parole in January 2021.
Cameron remains held in the McHenry County Jail on a $200,000 bond. He would need to post $20,000 cash in order to be released.
He is scheduled to appear in court again on March 25.