A major drug trafficking operation spanning across eastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island has been dismantled, leading to the arrest of 25 individuals and the seizure of large quantities of fentanyl, cocaine, firearms, and cash.
The year-long investigation, a joint effort by federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, targeted a sophisticated drug distribution network allegedly led by 33-year-old Yulial Cuello-Reynoso of Leominster.
The organization is accused of operating a high-volume drug delivery service, processing and distributing an estimated $20,000 worth of narcotics daily. They allegedly used coded systems and hidden compartments in vehicles to conceal their activities.
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During the operation, authorities seized over 2.3 kilograms of fentanyl, 300 grams of cocaine, and approximately 12 kilograms of suspected fentanyl and cocaine. Six firearms and approximately $400,000 in cash were also recovered.
“Communities across eastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island are safer today because of this takedown that dismantled a sophisticated and large-scale drug trafficking organization operating in plain sight. We allege that these defendants exploited addiction for personal profit and with full knowledge that the drugs they were peddling could be lethal. They allegedly raked in $20,000 a day at the expense of the lives and safety of people suffering from drug addiction,” said United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy. “This case should send an unmistakable message: together with our federal, state and local partners, we will not allow drug traffickers to profit while our communities suffer, and we are committed to disrupting these criminal enterprises.”
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The defendants face charges of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine, which carry penalties of up to 20 years in prison.
This operation underscores the ongoing efforts to combat the opioid crisis and disrupt drug trafficking networks operating in New England.
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