HOLYOKE — A month-long investigation by local and federal agencies culminated in a significant drug raid at a Holyoke apartment, leading to two arrests and the seizure of narcotics, officials said Friday.
Holyoke Police Department’s Narcotics/Vice Unit, in coordination with the FBI Western Massachusetts Gang Task Force and other law enforcement bodies, executed a search warrant at 214 Pine Street, Apt. 3R, after receiving reports from concerned citizens about rampant drug activity in the area.
The investigation, spurred by complaints of open-air drug sales around Essex and Pine Streets, pinpointed the third-floor residence as a hub for the manufacturing, storing, and distribution of illegal substances.
During the raid, quantities of Fentanyl and cocaine, prepared for street sale, and an undisclosed amount of U.S. currency were seized by authorities.
Carlos Luis Leon and Michelle Vasquez were arrested at the scene and face multiple charges under the Massachusetts Controlled Substances Act, including possession and intent to distribute Class A and B substances.
The joint operation, dubbed Operation Safe Streets, is part of an ongoing effort to combat drug trafficking and related violence within Holyoke, involving units from the Hampden County Sheriff’s Department, Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms, Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Marshal’s Service, and the Massachusetts State Police.
