BREAKING: Boston Police have just seized over two kilograms of fentanyl and arrested five suspects in a coordinated operation targeting drug activity in the Southwest Corridor. This urgent crackdown comes in response to community complaints about increasing drug-related incidents in the area, particularly following the dismantling of the Mass and Cass tent-city, which has heightened concerns about public safety.
The operation, carried out on July 15, 2023, involved multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Boston Police Department, Massachusetts State Police, and the MBTA Police. Officers executed search warrants at several locations, including 176 Stratton St. in Dorchester, 127 Hazelton St. in Mattapan, and 1059 Tremont St. in Roxbury.
According to a statement from the Boston Police Department, the seizure included 32 rounds of ammunition, digital scales, drug packaging materials, and over $3,000 in cash. The operation underscores the ongoing battle against the opioid crisis that continues to plague Boston, particularly in the aftermath of the Mass and Cass situation.
The suspects taken into custody include Ricky Wilson Soto-Arias, 36, and Doris Baez, 37, both of whom are facing charges for trafficking Class A drugs. Additionally, Soto-Arias and Baez have been charged with unlawful possession of ammunition. The other suspects, Bryan Mejia, 31; Jeil Hernandez, 44; and Stephen Smith, 37, also from Boston, were similarly charged, with Smith facing outstanding warrants for breaking and entering and larceny.
This operation signals a heightened response from law enforcement to combat the ongoing drug crisis affecting Boston communities. Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity as they continue their efforts to restore safety and security in the area.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
