Sterling police have arrested a Sterling man in connection with trafficking and possessing large amounts of cannabis.

According to a news release, Sterling police on Thursday arrested Andrew W. Knapp, 34, on charges of unlawful possession of cannabis, 2,000.1 grams to 5,000 grams, a Class 2 felony; unlawful possession of cannabis with intent to deliver, 2,000.1 grams to 5,000 grams, a Class 1 felony; cannabis trafficking, a Class X felony; and one count each of unlawful possession of a controlled substance and driving on a revoked license, both of which are Class 4 felonies.

Knapp was taken into custody and released with a notice to appear in court, according to police. He is awaiting a Jan. 8 court date.

The Sterling Police Department began a narcotics investigation this month in the 900 block of Seventh Avenue after receiving complaints of drug trafficking in the area. The Sterling Police Department and Illinois State Police Blackhawk Area Task Force conducted an investigation and identified Knapp as a suspect, according to the release.

He was taken into custody Thursday when Illinois State Police SWAT executed a search warrant at a residence, according to the release.