A months-long investigation involving several different law enforcement agencies recently broke up an alleged drug ring operating in Massachusetts. Twelve individuals were taken into custody for their suspected involvement in the drug trafficking operation, which is suspected of distributing cocaine throughout Hampshire County, Franklin County and North Quabbin. Now, those arrested are likely seeking effective criminal defense counsel to help them fight the charges against them.
Details of the investigation and arrests
The Northwestern District Attorney’s Office, the Northwestern District Anti-Crime Task Force and several other law enforcement agencies investigated a suspected drug ring for months before finally making arrests. The warrants were served initially on Tuesday, Dec. 14 and continued throughout that week. A total of 12 people were arrested because of the sting operation.
Among those, two brothers are believed to have been the leaders of the cocaine distribution network. One of the men owned a barbershop in the area, and authorities believe he used the business as a front for distributing cocaine. Reportedly, the network distributed between 100 and 200 grams of the drug throughout the area on any given day.
The report did not mention the specific amounts of drugs and suspected drug money seized during the operation, but it did state that more than a kilogram was found in possession by the two brothers, and several kilos were seized upon subsequent arrests of different individuals. A photo accompanying the report show several bags and containers of suspected cocaine along with considerable amounts of cash.
Legal recourse for suspects
The two brothers who were the alleged leaders of the ring each face charges of trafficking more than 200 grams of cocaine and conspiracy to violate drug law, among other charges. Each was held on a $500,000 cash bail, and their cases received a continuance until mid-January. The others allegedly involved in the ring face similar charges of trafficking and conspiracy, with a wide range of bails set. So far, it appears all of the accused individuals have pleaded not guilty, and each will want to work closely with an experienced criminal defense attorney to protect their rights and increase their chances for a favorable outcome.
