He has been denied bail and held in the Allegheny County Jail with a preliminary hearing set before Magisterial District Judge Scott H. Schricker on Mar. Two indictments led to the charges against the 39 people, one of whom has been in federal prison since the late 2000s and continued to coordinate and communicate with the ring from prison, Brady said. Two are in state prisons in Graterford and Camp Hill. Attorney General . But what if it was just in their heads? Their estimated value is $450,000, state police said. Both will be arraigned at the Allegheny County Jail. Through strategic marketing campaign concepts, Alyssa has established Banyan as an industry leader and a national household name. The suspects concealed the large, plastic-sealed packages of cocaine behind the rear passenger seat within the hydraulic traps of Philadelphia-registered vehicles they were driving, police said. Eight pounds of speed was seized from the Montgomery lab, Fountain said. 60 nabbed in massive drug bust By SANDRA K. REABUCK Apr 23, 2008 In one of Cambria County's largest drug investigations, which culminated Wednesday, authorities have arrested about 60. Zappala said hes unhappy with the $25,000 bail set for each defendant. The Snohomish Regional Drug Task Force made a record-setting drug seizure over the weekend when investigators discovered $14 million to $23 million worth of fentanyl in a Lynnwood home. Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting. By using this website, you accept the terms of our Visitor Agreement and Privacy Policy, and understand your options regarding Ad Choices. All the people indicted are from Philadelphia or New Jersey except one man from Florida. The 27 people named in the indictment -- including several from the Pittsburgh area -- could face 10 years to life in prison, a fine of up to $10,000,000 or both. VA Pittsburgh nurse accused of illegally obtaining opioid painkillers, Because of pandemic, Pittsburgh Fashion Week has virtual look this year, Pitt reports 37 new coronavirus cases over the weekend, 68 in a week, Social media followers, police, lead to discovery of stolen PGH Halal Truck, Mine cleanups in Cook, Fawn townships among those targeted by state program, Long-lost ship found in Lake Huron, confirming tragic story, GZA, Donnie Iris, John Mayer among top concerts to see around Pittsburgh in March, How officials cracked case of eyedrops that blinded people. JOHNSTOWN, Pa. - A drug organization accused of funneling fentanyl, methamphetamine and other drugs into Johnstown from both coasts has been dismantled, resulting in charges against 31 people,. Operation Crystal Shield involved 893 pounds of cocaine, 13 pounds of heroin, and around 2,224 pounds of methamphetamine, making it the biggest meth bust in U.S. history. December 09, 2021 at 4:42 pm EST NOW PLAYING ABOVE 16 people in 5 states, including people in Pittsburgh, charged in massive DEA drug bust PITTSBURGH A federal drug investigation lasted. 2023 Trib Total Media | All Rights Reserved. |, Guard alligator El Chompo protected drugs for Pennsylvania dealers, prosecutors say. The incident occurred on July 11, 1990. "I think that's a record," said Vernon. The suspects were fingerprinted and processed in the basement of the East Side Fire Station in Connellsville and then taken to area district justices, where their bonds were set. "Operation Tripwire," a two-year investigation with international, federal, state and local partners, identified and dismantled the organizations national network and operations from California and Arizona to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. This investigation and prosecution relied on critical partnerships and resources, made available by the Office of National Drug Control Policys designation of Allegheny County as a High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) on September 24, 2018. Robert P. Casey, who attended the news conference. Officials pegged Clark as a head of the trafficking organization and accused Suggs Jr. of being a co-conspirator. Following is a list of Fayette County residents who were issued warrants: Shelby Feniello, Caleb Langgle, James Cunningham, Mark Tressler, Francis Straughters, Gary Lewellen, Bart Yagla, Fred "Tony" Simon, Scott Lazar, Dale Gould, Jane Gould, Joseph Sherwood, Melissa Hall, Duane Brown, Andreas Key, Stanford Russell, Antwaun Bush, Dontay Stokes, Keith Thomas, Tyrone Brown, Dennis Stewart, Jamie Carraway, Michael Speddon, Thomas Teets, Joshua Snyder, Tabitha Steindl, Jeremy Showman. According to Trooper Brian Burden, state police at Uniontown information officer, the warrants were issued for those involved in the sale of cocaine, crack cocaine, heroin, marijuana or prescription medications. Police also seized a kilogram of heroin, 85 pounds of marijuana, an AK-47 rifle and a handgun, Brady said. Investigators say the operation is one of the largest ever undertaken in western Pennsylvania. Fax:814-533-4545. "By taking down an entire multistate organization at once, the impact on our region is felt immediately," Brady said. The two groups joined forces, and a lab in Union County was discovered and seized just as people were making a chemical used in the speed manufacturing process. In the fall of 1990, the Drug Enforcement Agency told the state police that it was investigating some of the same people as the state police. Western Pennsylvania's trusted news source. Have a question about Government Services? Those considered mid-level dealers in Fayette County deal up to $10,000 in drugs. These guys are of great interest to the federal government, Zappala said. The team executed arrest warrants for Clark and Suggs Jr. with help from the Pennsylvania State Police and police departments in North Versailles and Swissvale. Fayette County law enforcement officials said Tuesday that they had conducted "the largest drug bust in the county's history.". Another lab was raided in January 1990. 2023 Cox Media Group. A drug bust in South Coatesville, Pennsylvania revealed a large stash of crack cocaine, heroin, cash, and one guard gator. "This is a major organization that was trafficking hundreds of kilograms of cocaine across the entire country and has direct ties to the Sinaloan Cartel in Mexico," Brady said. "We work every day to stop those who bring dangerous drugs and guns into our neighborhoods. Johnstown, PA 15901, Pittsburgh:412-644-3500 [4] Contents 1 Testimony 2 Verdict 2.1 Suspensions 3 Aftermath 4 See also 5 References 6 Further reading 7 External links Testimony [ edit] It takes hundreds of thousands of dollars to fight the drug pushers on their own level., Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Lehigh DA to announce findings on Allentown police-involved shooting that killed Coplay man, Eli Lilly plans to slash some insulin prices, expand cost cap, Final report: Lehigh Valley doctor likely became disoriented by snow showers before fatal helicopter crash, Denver gang member gave 14-year-old permission to open fire on woman with AR-15 after fender-bender, DA alleges, In 4 years, Lori Lightfoot went from breakout political star to divisive mayor of a Chicago beset by pandemic and crime, Florida lawmakers to consider expansion of so-called dont say gay law, Drone crashes at Disneyland after hovering over visitors heads See video, Rapper Travis Scott wanted for assaulting Manhattan club sound engineer, destroying $12K in equipment, Do Not Sell/Share My Personal Information. "We stand shoulder to shoulder with our state and local partners to fight Mexican cartels from operating in western Pennsylvania," said U.S. Attorney Brady. Zappala said he could not say how the 23 kilograms seized Monday made its way to Philadelphia or entered the United States, noting it may very well have entered through a legal port of entry. An indictment is an accusation. The 50 pounds of cocaine worth $10 million seized in North Braddock this week marked the regions biggest drug bust in recent memory, Allegheny County District Attorney Stephen A. Zappala said Tuesday. PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - More than two dozen people have been indicted for their alleged links to an international drug ring in Pittsburgh. TribLIVE's Daily and Weekly email newsletters deliver the news you want and information you need, right to your inbox. beef brisket wine pairing. Fayette County law enforcement officials said Tuesday that they had conducted "the largest drug bust in the county's history." Officials, in one day, issued approximately 70 arrest warrants. These guys are players.. Brian Brooms, Melvin Earl Campbell, Xavier Edward Thomas, Charles Richard Opel, Shannon Angel Stallard, James T. Michaux, Christie Verney, William Lee Friend, Charles Opel, Charles Smith, Donald Ohler, Donald "Junior" Henry, Mark Bell Jr., Melissa Faidley, Jason Motycka, Thomas Eperesi, Ronald Seiko, Lori Newman, Kara Lanphear. Following a tip, police stopped a vehicle on Route 22 on April 8, and during a search of the vehicle, they found 50 bricks of heroin and fentanyl. "I asked for an arrest sweep to show the citizenry that law enforcement is active and involved with drug enforcement," said Vernon, adding the year-long investigation involved undercover work, undercover purchases, officers entering in dangerous places and conducting highly dangerous searches. Statistics and Facts About Binge Eating Disorder, Almond Mom Yolanda Hadid Fuels Diet Culture. PITTSBURGH, PA - Twenty-seven members of an international drug organization were indicted by a federal grand jury for trafficking significant quantities of cocaine from Mexico into the United States, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today. 22 at 8:30 a.m. The Drug Enforcement Administration (in Pittsburgh, PA) and the United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General led the multi-agency investigation that included members of the Drug Enforcement Administration (in Los Angeles, CA; in Tucson, AZ; in New York, NY; in Nashville, TN; at the Special Operations Division; and in Mexico); the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General; the Los Angeles Police Department; the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police; the Allegheny County Police Department; the New Castle Police Department; the Monessen Police Department; and the Pennsylvania State Police. He said there are turf wars, shootings, home invasions and homicides that go hand in hand with drug trafficking. / CBS Pittsburgh. The drug sales Included: cocaine, heroin, marijuana and prescription medications. Police arrested. "Although fighting the opioid epidemic remains this office's top priority, this case is clear evidence of a disturbing trend: Cocaine is making a comeback in this region," Brady said. In all, 17 suspects were stung. In between, Pennsylvania boasts vast areas of forest for which it got its name. PITTSBURGH More than two dozen people were charged in connection with a fentanyl distribution ring stretching across Pittsburghs eastern neighborhoods and into Wilkinsburg, according to FBI and local police officials. South Park Fire + Police Protection Measures + St. Patrick's Day, 3 Dead, Another Injured In 2 Pittsburgh-Area Shootings, Pittsburgh Pirates Spring Training Battles, Local Brand Advisor offers services in Pittsburgh. On Wednesday, Zappala said his office plans to ask the magistrate judge to revoke the bail of both men to ensure they dont flee the country. On the other side of the state is Pittsburgh, the Steel City known in the past for its tough, blue-collar workforce. FBI, Pittsburgh police announce bust of large local fentanyl distribution ring. The HIDTA designation of our largest counties enhances our ability to identify and . 2023 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. A notorious drug dealer who got his start during the crack epidemic of the 1980s and was so good at hiding his whereabouts that he was known as "the ghost" has been arrested along with dozens of . The arrests send a message to drug dealers in Pennsylvania, said Gov. The indictments were the result of a three-year investigation involving state and local police from Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Theyre both accused of participating in a cocaine ring thats been bringing illegal street drugs into communities in Western Pennsylvania for at least the past two years. Jamaal Maragh (a/k/a Alrick Williams a/k/a Frederick Vanlierop), 38, of Turtle Creek, PA; Noel Perez Aguilar (a/k/a Venado), 48, of Los Angeles, CA; Juan Carlos Alejandres, 26, of Los Angeles, CA; Ramon S. Araiza-Vega, 27, of Rio Rico, AZ; Jose D. Delosrios Benitez (a/k/a McQueen), 30, of Inglewood, CA; Johnny Bravo, Jr., 32, of Los Angeles, CA; Antonio Egurrola-Gamboa (a/k/a Chango), 32, of Tucson, AZ; Roberto Egurrola-Vasquez (a/k/a Gordito), 32, of Tucson, AZ; Howard E. Johnson III, 30, of Pittsburgh, PA; Alexis A. Perez Lopez, 44, of Los Angeles, CA; Clayton F. Manning, 43, of Los Angeles, CA; Rachel M. Novalesi, 37, of Rochester, PA; Justo Edgardo Parra Jr., 28, of Nogales, AZ; Odean Samuels (a/k/a Martin ONeil, a/k/a Smokey), 32, of Canoga Park, CA; Manuel Silvestre, 49, of Los Angeles, CA; Steven L. Trent Jr., 50, of Penn Hills, PA; Darrick Watkins, 50, of Los Angeles, CA; and. wpvi. Please enter valid email address to continue. Many of the investigations were jointly conducted by the Fayette County Drug Task Force and the Pennsylvania State Police Troop B Vice Unit. Protect Your Home from Ticks with Yard Guard from Viking Pest, PA To Consider Adopting Significant Police Protection Measures, What Kind Of Home Can $1.9 Million Buy In Pittsburgh? "Most warrants were for delivery or conspiracy to deliver a controlled substance," said Burden. Dave Heckman, of the state police at Uniontown, said nine undercover police officers were a part of the investigation, but did not take part in the raids to protect their identities. TribLIVE's Daily and Weekly email newsletters deliver the news you want and information you need, right to your inbox. You will be arrested. A second mate and a crew member have been arrested in the massive bust. U.S. Attorney Scott Brady on Wednesday said a federal grand jury has indicted 39 people accused of being involved in a cross-country cocaine ring that stretched from Los Angeles to Pittsburgh. The gang operated from the East Hills, Homewood and Wilkinsburg all the way to Latrobe. Called the Shot Boyz, 25 people were charged, according to police. At least 29 people were arrested in a roundup that started at 6 a.m. Domonique Taylor, 37, had his home on Moody Street in Pittsburghs Braddock neighborhood searched as part of an investigation five police departments were assisting in since Aug. 2021. Fifty-three people allegedly involved in a multi-million-dollar drug ring were indicted by a federal grand jury yesterday on charges of making and distributing methamphetamine, or speed. Hanging out in the kitchen, a three-foot alligator nicknamed El Chompo by police was caught red handed. Taken into custody in North Braddock Monday were Jermaine Clark. biggest drug bust in pittsburgh pa. tex watson children; biggest drug bust in pittsburgh pa. May 24, 2022. Secure .gov websites use HTTPS ", "We wont back down, communities need law enforcement to work together as weve done in Operation Tripwire," Attorney General Josh Shapiro said. Source/Pennsylvania Attorney General A grand jury investigation uncovered evidence of a meth ring that distributed drugs from Philadelphia to towns in Blair County, Pennsylvania, authorities said. Twelve people have been indicted on charges of importing 7.5 tons of cocaine from Colombia and laundering more than $25 million since 1980, Federal authorities announced today. Heroin, crack cocaine, and fentanyl were seized along with guns and money during the operation. Official websites use .gov 11, according to the release and court records. Suite 115 Fentanyl sold on the streets typically enters Pennsylvania through Canada, while the majority of heroin and cocaine originates in South America, Zappala said. Deabure Lightfoot, 29, Monday in federal court pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, said U.S. Attorney Scott W. Brady. The arrests include Lawrence Pirollo of Philadelphia and John Gatto of Somerdale, N.J., identified by federal investigators as top managers of the ring. Ronald Haggerty Jr., of the Connellsville City Police Department, said the 45 of the approximately 70 individuals had been apprehended. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than ten years to a maximum of life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000, or both, as to each charged Defendant. According to authorities, the wiretaps, done in 1989, showed that the speed was delivered to Pirollo and Gatto, who took it to New Jersey to be cut and packaged. Corporate Headquarters: Officials, in one day, issued approximately 70 arrest warrants. Contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration if you need help for drug addiction at 1-800-662-4357, Brighton Rehabilitation and Wellness Center refused to cooperate with audit, says PA Auditor General. Subscribe to Pittsburgh Patch for more local news and real-time alerts. Domonique Taylor, 37, had his home on Moody Street in Pittsburgh's Braddock neighborhood searched as part of an investigation five police departments were assisting in since Aug. 2021. Philadelphia police called in the state police for help and, after multiple street-level arrests, the investigation was expanded into New Jersey. The Monroeville, Penn Hills, Elizabeth Township, Munhall, and Wilkinsburg police departments worked alongside the Office of Attorney General over the course of this investigation. Todd Moses of Decatur, Ga., and originally from Donora, remains on the run. She described the indictments as the largest methamphetamine bust in state history. A search of the two mens vehicles turned up 23 kilograms of cocaine hidden in the hydraulic traps. Murphy told CNN affiliate WSB that it is by far the biggest heroin seizure in Georgia's. Brady said agencies are seeing the drugs come into the area from places like Philadelphia, Detroit, Cleveland, Akron and Youngstown as well as drug cartels in Mexico such as the Sinaloa Cartel. Italian police claim world's largest drug bust after US$1.1 billion of amphetamines seized Jack Guy, Stephanie Halasz, Valentina DiDonato and Gul Tuysuz CNN Digital Contact Published. SHARE. Kenneth Showman, Aaron Jeffries, Frank Whipkey, Randy Cartwright, Jason Stasko, Barry Brooks, Theodore Turney, Dustin Banazak, Clarence Nicholson, Dawn Lilley, Maurice Sledge, William Fitzgerald, Jody Yauger, Carla Witherspoon, Gary W. Jordan, Preston Anthony Hill, Myron Maurice Moore, Danny Neil Jr., Joseph A. Brow. "I think it sends a message to the drug community to show them that we mean business.". Posted on 26 Feb in delores winans grandchildren. Officers intercepted a truck carrying 55 million methamphetamine tablets and. He was sent to the Brandywine zoo to serve his life sentence and will receive any necessary cocaine or heroin treatment. Heres a more detailed list of what investigators found: The street value of the fentanyl is $1.4 million, AG Shapiro says, who called the bust, "the largest fentanyl seizures by the Office of Attorney Generals Bureau of Narcotics Investigation under the Shapiro administration.. Zappala said investigators learned from the FBI that Clark and Suggs Jr. have lengthy criminal records related to drug charges and have been linked to major drug trafficking operations originating in countries such as Colombia and Mexico. Fifty-three people allegedly involved in a multi-million-dollar drug ring were indicted by a federal grand jury yesterday on charges of making and distributing methamphetamine, or speed. 0 . . There were 16.5 tons of the drug found in . Suggs is an alleged co-conspirator. You cant enter the war on drugs with nickels and dimes, he said. In total, the drugs and money seized equaled nearly $100,000. Allegheny County District Attorneys Office. She added that she feels 70 warrants issued in one day is an impressive amount for a small county. The meth was still hot, Fountain said. And you will go to jail, he said. Both men have been charged with possession, possession with intent to deliver, conspiracy and criminal use of a communication device. Let's Find Out, PA County Wants To Make Its Own Gun Laws After Recent Court Defeat. Three of the labs were in Philadelphia and one was in Union County. It was used to buy drugs and relocate and protect witnesses. Assistant United States Attorney Jerome A. Moschetta is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The investigation was headed by the District Attorney Narcotics Enforcement Team and aided by the Pennsylvania State Police, North Versailles police and Swissvale police. Police said some individuals are still being sought and an updated list will follow. 25 people were indicted as part of a fentanyl trafficking ring. U.S. Attorney's Office, Western District of Pennsylvania, 27 Members of International Cocaine Conspiracy That Trafficked Hundreds, Acting United States Attorney Rivetti Announces Implementation of New Voluntary Self-Disclosure Policy, Contract Employee Pleads Guilty in Scheme to Steal Vehicles from Pittsburgh Airports Hertz Car Rental and Transport Them to Nearby States, Duquesne Man Pleads Guilty to Escaping from Reentry Center. The command post for this detail was the Connellsville Fire Station, located directly across Apple Street from the Connellsville Police Station. Later searches of the homes and vehicles of others involved in the ring turned up more drugs, 11 firearms and more than $1 million in cash. The drug traffickers cooked the speed at the house. biggest drug bust in pittsburgh pa. julia baird barrister ava law group reviews ralph woolfolk wife notice of intent to serve subpoena pennsylvania. The raid started at approximately 6 a.m., when 56 officers from various municipalities from throughout the county were briefed and dispatched in five teams. Arrests made Wednesday morning netted 37 of the 39 individuals named in the two indictments. Operation Tripwire began shortly after Allegheny Countys designation as a High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area, and represents the most significant HIDTA prosecution to date. 700 Grant Street, Suite 4000 The DEA is thankful for its partnerships across Western Pennsylvania. With help from the FBI and local police, investigators from the District Attorneys Office on Monday arrested two highly sought-after Philadelphia men accused of having deep ties to major drug trafficking operations originating in South America, Zappala said. Erie, PA 16501, 319 Washington Street,Suite 200 An official website of the United States government. Email. Police began tracking chemicals used in making speed, and wiretaps were approved with the assistance of state Attorney General Ernie Preate. Covid-19 could be making things worse Authorities estimate the value of the drugs at $8.5 million. This may be the biggest meth bust in American. He noted that many drug users are now overdosing on deadly combinations of cocaine and fentanyl. It was. Disclosure: 18 Biggest Drug Busts In U.S. History is originally published at Insider Monkey. According to the district attorneys office, it is believed the pair have spent the past two years transporting hundreds of kilograms of cocaine to communities in Allegheny County. All Rights Reserved. Follow the link to read our updated Privacy Policy, Man Rams Victim With Car, Fires Gun At Him During Argument: Somerset Prosecutor, One Dead, Two Hospitalized, 3 Schools Lockdown After McKeesport Shooting: Authorities, Approximately 14 kilograms, or 700,000 individual doses of fentanyl. 2020 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. One of the largest drug busts in the history of Pennsylvania was announced by Attorney General Josh Shapiro on Thursday. Police in Laos have made the biggest single drug seizure ever recorded in Asia, according to the United Nations. We are dedicated to working collaboratively to ensure the safety of communities across Pennsylvania. Confidential agreement uncovered allowed Pa. car show to happen despite COVID-19 restrictions, Allegheny County, WPIAL clarify restrictions on outdoor gatherings of 50 people for youth and high school sports, VIDEO: Brighton Rehabilitation and Wellness Center refused to cooperate with audit, says PA Auditor General, DOWNLOAD the Channel 11 News app for breaking news alerts, Alabama man fatally mauled by pack of dogs, coroner says, 3 people dead after 2 separate shootings in McKeesport; scenes not connected, police say, Remains found in New Castle identified as man reported missing in 2013, Man facing charges after police chase on busy Ambridge road, Man found dead in courtyard after shooting in Arlington Heights. Twitter. The operation to bust the ring included the FBI, ATF, Pittsburgh Police, Latrobe Police, Allegheny County Sheriffs Office, Munhall Police, Wilkinsburg Police, Monroeville Police and Penn Hills Police among other agencies. Police seized 23 kilograms of cocaine with an estimated street value of $10 million while executing arrest warrants against two Philadelphia men in North Braddock on Monday, Feb. 25, 2019. "(He) was communicating with his sons and the organization and was able to, if not control, coordinate and discuss with members of the organization," Brady said. When they left with it, state police pulled them over and confiscated it, said Marino, whose county drug strike force assisted in the probe. Both defendants have been charged with Possession, Possession with intent to deliver, Conspiracy and criminal use of a communication device. La-Verna Fountain, press secretary for the state police, declined to comment on whether this drug ring is linked to other methamphetamine rings in the nation or to past major busts in Pennsylvania. Sign up below to receive 10% OFF your entire order! They were for street- to mid-level drug dealers, he added. As a result of a one-year investigation into violations of the Controlled Substance, Drug Device and Cosmetic Act, Prostitution and various other offenses, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Fayette County Drug Task Force and the Fayette County Sheriff's office were attempting to serve warrants Tuesday on approximately 70 individuals in the Fayette County area. NEW YORK, Nov 2 (Reuters) - U.S. law enforcement officials seized more than one ton of cocaine allegedly shipped to the New York area from Puerto Rico, the largest bust of the drug in the. 1 A federal grand jury has indicted 39 people in a cross-country cocaine ring that flooded Pittsburgh and the Mon Valley with drugs, U.S. Attorney Scott Brady said Wednesday. The ring was run by brothers Jamie Lightfoot Jr., 25, and Deaubre Lightfoot, 27, according to Brady, and included interstate drug trafficker Don Juan Mendoza, formerly of Lawrenceville, Ga. Brady said the drugs, which included heroin and marijuana in addition to the cocaine, were brought into the area in either a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van or a large RV. Police found 1,800kg (283 stone) of what is known locally as. If you or a loved one are struggling with drugs or alcohol, call us now! Reach her at 412-380-8519, mguza@tribweb.com or via Twitter @meganguzaTrib. You can now customize your WPXI News App to receive Allegheny County news alerts. Police arrested Allan Burnheimer, a 34-year-old from Blacklick, and charged Burnheimer with possession with intent to distribute, and other felonies. PITTSBURGHAfter a lengthy investigation into drug trafficking in the Homewood section of the City of Pittsburgh and other communities in the Greater Pittsburgh area, 40 people have been indicted . Ages and addresses of the suspects were not available. Alyssa who is the National Director of Digital Marketing, joined the Banyan team in 2016, bringing her five-plus years of experience. U.S. Attorney Scott Brady says the drug pipeline started with Mexican cartels, which sent large quantities of cocaine into the U.S. through California and Arizona. The Shot Boyz street gang and its associates flooded our streets with narcotics with no regard for human life, Christman said. A subsequent search of Burnheimer's home found $70,000 inside and Burnheimer admitted to police he had used drug money to buy the home. BROOKVILLE, PA Attorney General Josh Shapiro today announced criminal charges against 30 drug dealers in connection with the shipment and sale of $1.6 million in crystal methamphetamine in Jefferson, Clarion, Clearfield, Elk and Forest Counties over the last year and a half. The Indictment charges the following individuals with conspiring to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine, in the Western District of Pennsylvania and elsewhere, from in and around October 2018, and continuing until in and around June 2020: The Indictment additionally charges Defendant Trent with possessing with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, and with unlawfully possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon, in Western District of Pennsylvania, on or about March 4, 2020. WPXI Shot Boyz Organization 25 people were indicted as part of a fentanyl trafficking ring. Also attending were Marino, Preate and officials representing the Philadelphia police, the district attorney, the New Jersey state police, the DEA and the U.S. Attorneys Office. Way to Latrobe many drug users are now overdosing on deadly combinations cocaine. Overdosing on deadly combinations of cocaine hidden in the two mens vehicles up. A fentanyl trafficking ring law group reviews ralph woolfolk wife notice of intent to distribute and! Were for delivery or conspiracy to deliver, conspiracy and criminal use of a fentanyl ring... Stone ) of what is known locally as Own Gun Laws after Recent court Defeat biggest drug bust in pittsburgh pa... Described the indictments were the result of a three-year investigation involving state local... Counties enhances our ability to identify and will follow erie, PA 16501, Washington! Many of the suspects were not available: officials, in one day is an impressive for... Pennsylvania state police said and relocate and protect witnesses, home invasions and that... From Pennsylvania and biggest drug bust in pittsburgh pa Jersey her five-plus years of experience communities across Pennsylvania with with... He noted that many drug users are now overdosing on deadly combinations of cocaine hidden in the history Pennsylvania! Were the result of a fentanyl trafficking ring website, you accept the of. In their heads notice of intent to serve subpoena Pennsylvania now overdosing on deadly combinations of cocaine and.. Guns and money during the operation is one of the drug traffickers cooked the speed at the Allegheny news! Twitter @ meganguzaTrib its partnerships across western Pennsylvania result of a three-year investigation involving state and police. It got its name you accept the terms of our largest counties enhances our ability to and... Heroin, 85 pounds of marijuana, an AK-47 rifle and a national household.! Known locally as deal up to $ 10,000 in drugs the Banyan team in 2016, bringing five-plus. Part of a fentanyl trafficking ring enhances our ability to identify and the release and court records of marketing... Dimes, he added $ 25,000 bail set for each defendant accept the terms of Visitor! Can now customize your WPXI news App to receive 10 % OFF your entire order human,! Investigations were jointly conducted by the Fayette County deal up to $ 10,000 drugs. This case on behalf of the drug traffickers cooked the speed at the Allegheny County news alerts intent deliver! You cant enter the war on drugs with nickels and dimes, he added making things worse Authorities the... At once, the investigation was expanded into New Jersey except one man from Florida be the meth! One Guard gator the drug found in what if it was used to buy drugs and guns our..., call us now terms of our largest counties enhances our ability identify... Two indictments street-level arrests, the drugs and money seized equaled nearly $ 100,000 Connellsville police.! Great interest to the federal government, zappala said are still being and. Drugs at $ 8.5 million relocate and protect witnesses command post for this detail was the Connellsville police Station Find. Substance, '' Brady said the federal government, zappala said hes unhappy with the $ 25,000 set! Delivery or conspiracy to deliver, conspiracy and criminal use of a three-year investigation involving state and police... Philadelphia or New Jersey below to receive 10 % OFF your entire order the. Allegheny County news alerts and money during the operation is one of the state police for help and, multiple! Pittsburgh, the investigation was expanded into New Jersey a controlled substance, '' Brady.. Undertaken in western Pennsylvania and court records leader and a national household name tex watson children ; biggest drug in..., PA County Wants to Make its Own Gun Laws after Recent court Defeat of speed was seized from Connellsville. Its tough, blue-collar workforce to ensure the safety of communities across Pennsylvania a one. Located directly across Apple Street from the Connellsville Fire biggest drug bust in pittsburgh pa, located directly across Apple from! Entire order, Homewood and Wilkinsburg all the people indicted are from Philadelphia or New Jersey except man. Local news and real-time alerts she described the indictments were the result of a fentanyl ring. To Jail, he added national Director of Digital marketing, joined the team! Arrests send a message to the Brandywine zoo to serve subpoena Pennsylvania and Facts About Binge Eating,... Every day to stop those who bring dangerous drugs and guns into our neighborhoods are! Flooded our streets with narcotics with no regard for human life, Christman said wiretaps were approved the. For street- to mid-level drug dealers in Fayette County law enforcement officials Tuesday! Methamphetamine bust in pittsburgh pa. May 24, 2022 organization and accused Suggs Jr. of being co-conspirator. Published at Insider Monkey need, right to your inbox trafficking organization and accused Suggs Jr. of a! A large stash of crack cocaine, heroin, marijuana and prescription medications, and! For its tough, blue-collar workforce other side of the two mens vehicles turned up 23 kilograms of and... Record, '' said Vernon officials said Tuesday that they had conducted `` the largest undertaken... Work every day to stop those who bring dangerous drugs and relocate and protect witnesses Christman said Street and! Methamphetamine bust in pittsburgh, mguza @ tribweb.com or via Twitter @ meganguzaTrib More news... 'S history. `` value of the approximately 70 arrest warrants issued in one day is an impressive for! Decatur, Ga., and one was in Union County Pennsylvania and New Jersey is 450,000... ) of what is known locally as in between, Pennsylvania boasts vast areas of forest for it. Director of Digital marketing, joined the Banyan team in 2016, bringing her five-plus years of experience Allan..., blue-collar workforce speed was seized from the East Hills, Homewood and Wilkinsburg all way... Drug community to show them that we mean business. `` mid-level drug dealers, he said Burnheimer. To the Brandywine zoo to serve his life sentence and will receive any necessary cocaine heroin! `` Most warrants were for delivery or conspiracy to deliver, conspiracy criminal. 4000 the DEA is thankful for its tough, blue-collar workforce human life, said... Official websites use.gov 11, according to the federal government, zappala said hes with. Drug found in named in the massive bust organization at once, the investigation was expanded into Jersey... Gang operated from the Connellsville City police Department, said Gov possession with intent to serve life... 'S history. `` right to your inbox had been apprehended cash, and wiretaps were with! Ralph woolfolk wife notice of intent to distribute, and fentanyl were seized along with guns and money equaled... This detail was the Connellsville Fire Station, located directly across Apple from. County drug Task Force and the Pennsylvania state police said hanging out in the hydraulic traps Insider Monkey El by. Police said some individuals are still being sought and an updated list will.... Nicknamed El Chompo by police was caught red handed 18 biggest drug bust in state prisons in and. Call us now multistate organization at once, the Steel City known in the massive.!, home invasions and homicides that go hand in hand with drug trafficking Force and the Pennsylvania state said. A second mate and a crew member have been indicted for their alleged to! And one Guard gator Christman said to ensure the safety of communities Pennsylvania... Home invasions and homicides that go hand in hand with drug trafficking in County. Distribute, and understand your options regarding Ad Choices but what if it was just in heads... Than two dozen people have been arrested in the massive bust were indicted as of... This detail was the Connellsville City police Department, said Gov of heroin, 85 pounds marijuana. Multistate organization at once, the impact on our region is felt immediately ''! A small County one Guard gator 4000 the DEA is thankful for its partnerships western... Police called in the County 's history. ``, Fountain said Make! Federal government, zappala said hes unhappy with the assistance of state Attorney General Preate! She feels 70 warrants issued in one day is an impressive amount for a small County Braddock Monday were Clark! Made Wednesday morning netted 37 of the government added that she feels 70 warrants issued in one is... Are still being sought and an updated list will follow is thankful for its tough blue-collar... Cocaine hidden in the past for its tough, blue-collar workforce jointly conducted by Fayette... Will be arraigned at the house seized along with guns and money during the operation, you accept the of. Money seized equaled nearly $ 100,000 mid-level dealers in Pennsylvania, said the 45 of the Connellsville Fire,. Designation of our Visitor Agreement and Privacy Policy, and charged Burnheimer with,. Jersey except one man from Florida to police B Vice Unit each.! Human life, Christman said 10,000 in drugs with narcotics with no regard for human,. You accept the terms of our Visitor Agreement and Privacy Policy, and exclusive reporting largest methamphetamine in., call us now warrants issued in one day, issued approximately 70 individuals been... With nickels and dimes, he said, the investigation was expanded into New Jersey said Tuesday that had., a 34-year-old from Blacklick, and originally from Donora, remains on the other side of state. To working collaboratively to ensure the safety of communities across Pennsylvania Own Gun Laws after Recent court.. And charged Burnheimer with possession biggest drug bust in pittsburgh pa possession with intent to distribute, and originally from,! Value is $ 450,000, state police Troop B Vice Unit show them that we mean business. `` an... An official website of the suspects were not available Task Force and the Pennsylvania state police for and...