Law enforcement agencies in Pennsylvania and New Jersey have successfully dismantled a cocaine trafficking network based in Philadelphia. This operation has led to the arrest of 20 individuals involved in the network. In addition to the arrests, authorities have also confiscated 20 firearms and a significant amount of illegal drugs.
Attorney General Michelle Henry, in collaboration with the Pennsylvania State Police and New Jersey State Police, has revealed charges against 20 individuals believed to be involved in a major cocaine trafficking operation in the greater Philadelphia region. According to investigators, these alleged traffickers utilized firearms to safeguard their illicit activities.
Earlier this month, law enforcement officials carried out numerous search warrants, resulting in the seizure of 20 firearms, 12.5 pounds of cocaine, and other illicit drugs. This operation also led to the arrest of 20 individuals, including Anthony “Bang” Blake, who is believed to be the leader of this criminal enterprise. The search warrants were primarily executed in the Philadelphia area, with assistance from New Jersey authorities.
The defendants are facing charges of felony possession with intent to deliver, conspiracy, and other offenses, including illegal firearms possession for some of them.
In the past few days, law enforcement authorities have apprehended seventeen individuals and issued arrest warrants for three others.
Blake, who is 45 years old, has been charged with nine felonies. These charges include corrupt organizations, drug offenses, and firearms offenses. During the arraignment, bail was set at $500,000 for Blake.
According to Attorney General Henry, the arrest operation led by Mr. Blake effectively dismantled a significant drug trafficking network in Philadelphia. He emphasized that all of the defendants who were charged were involved in the drug trade, and this operation successfully removed nearly two dozen traffickers from the streets. Attorney General Henry also highlighted the common practice among drug traffickers to use firearms for protection, making the collaboration between law enforcement agencies even more crucial in putting an end to this network of dealers.
“The charges announced today deliver a strong message to drug trafficking organizations: you are not welcome in Pennsylvania,” emphasized Colonel Christopher Paris, Commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police. He further added, “This collaborative effort showcases our steadfast dedication to eradicating corruption and violence from our communities, while seeking justice for the countless lives shattered by addiction and death.”
“These arrests highlight the unwavering dedication of law enforcement in fighting and dismantling drug trafficking operations,” stated Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. He emphasized the tireless collaboration with partner agencies and the resolute message being delivered: drug trafficking networks are not welcome in our communities, and every available resource will be utilized to safeguard citizens and ensure their well-being.”
The Drug Enforcement Administration, Montgomery County Detectives, and Delaware County Drug Task Force provided assistance to the Office of Attorney General, Pennsylvania State Police, and New Jersey State Police.
The following individuals have been charged and arrested: Blake, Kenneth McCall, Tyrone Hayward, Shawn Sanford, Zamir Allen, Irvin Sanders, Clifford Nixon, Ramses Rodriguez, Anthony Brown, Monica Cleveland, Amber Tressler, Carlos Alvelo, Norberto Toldeo, Christopher Ramos, Jerime Jones, and Jillian Carrington.
Khalil Rippy, Terrell Brice, and Jonathan Cruz are currently wanted by law enforcement agencies.
During the execution of the warrants, law enforcement authorities confiscated a total of 20 firearms, approximately 12.5 pounds of cocaine, a sum of $72,356 in cash, as well as significant amounts of fentanyl, MDMA, promethazine with codeine, marijuana, and various paraphernalia.
The Office of Attorney General’s Drug Strike Force Section will handle the prosecution of the case. It is important to remember that the defendants are considered innocent until proven guilty.