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A significant drug bust took place on Monday in the 200 block of South Sixth Street, resulting in the arrest of four individuals from Reading. The operation led to the seizure of nearly $900,000 worth of fentanyl and cocaine, highlighting the ongoing battle against drug trafficking in the area.
The Arrests and Seizures
During a press conference held on Tuesday afternoon, Berks County District Attorney John T. Adams announced the arrests of the four Reading men. Adams emphasized that the arrests signified the disruption of a street-level drug operation and the confiscation of over 3.5 kilograms of fentanyl.
According to Adams, the proximity of the drug operation to Tyson-Schoener Elementary School and St. Peter’s School raised serious concerns. He noted that the neighborhood, which is home to many law-abiding families, had been plagued by drug dealers for an extended period.
The Investigation and Arrests
The arrests on Monday were the culmination of a joint investigation by detectives from the Berks County Drug Task Force and the Reading Police Vice Unit. The investigation, which began in September, targeted an area known for high levels of street-level drug sales.
Search warrants were executed for seven apartments in the 200 block of South Sixth Street as a result of the investigation. A team comprising county detectives, city police, state police, members of the county emergency response team, and DEA agents carried out the searches on Monday.
The Individuals Arrested
The following individuals were arrested and arraigned before District Judge F. Richard Drumheller:
• Jose Santiago-Rosado, 32, charged with delivery of a controlled substance, possession with intent to deliver, and possession of a controlled substance, with bail set at $550,000.
• Gilberto Delgado-Santos, 38, charged with possession with intent to deliver, possession of a controlled substance, and possession of drug paraphernalia, with bail set at $1 million.
• James Gonzalez-Reyes, 47, charged with delivery of a controlled substance, possession with intent to deliver, possession of a controlled substance, and receiving stolen property, with bail set at $1 million.
• Roberto Rodriguez-Santos, 36, charged with delivery of a controlled substance, possession with intent to deliver, possession of a controlled substance, and possession of drug paraphernalia, with bail set at $1 million.
Seizures and Investigations
The investigation is ongoing, with Adams stating that more arrests are anticipated. While the initial focus was on street-level drug dealing, searches of the residences revealed large quantities of narcotics being handled.
Approximately 3.5 kilograms of fentanyl in bulk form were seized, which equates to around 175,000 doses and has a street value of approximately $875,000. Additionally, other items confiscated included packets of fentanyl, fentanyl pills, canisters of cocaine, cash, drug paraphernalia, and firearms.
Law Enforcement’s Response
Adams stressed the severity of the situation, particularly regarding the dangerous implications of fentanyl being mixed with other substances. He highlighted the need for stringent penalties for those involved in drug trafficking.
State Police Troop L Capt. Robert Bailey echoed Adams’ sentiments, emphasizing the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions. Bailey urged the public to report any suspected illegal activities, stressing the community’s role in aiding law enforcement efforts.
Overall, the arrests and seizures in the 200 block of South Sixth Street underscore the ongoing battle against drug trafficking in the area and the commitment of law enforcement to combatting this issue.
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