RUMFORD — Two local men were arrested Tuesday evening on charges of aggravated drug trafficking after a traffic stop led to the discovery of suspected fentanyl and other evidence suggesting drug trafficking activities, according to a statement from Chief Tony Milligan of the Rumford Police Department.
Nathan Blodgett, 26, and Alexander Shorey, 22, both from Rumford, face charges of Aggravated Trafficking in Scheduled Drugs and Violation of Conditions of Release after a traffic stop on Maine Avenue for a minor infraction escalated into a significant drug bust.
During the stop, a police K9 named “Niko” was brought in to perform an open-air sniff around the vehicle and signaled the presence of illegal narcotics.
This led to a search that uncovered approximately 60 doses of suspected fentanyl and a quantity of Suboxone.
Further investigation brought officers to an apartment linked to Shorey, where Blodgett and several others were found.
Blodgett, who was out on bail for a previous charge, was found to be in possession of an additional 40 doses of suspected fentanyl.
Searches of Blodgett and the apartment revealed more suspected fentanyl, drug scales, packaging materials, and paraphernalia associated with drug trafficking.
Authorities also seized a locked container from the apartment, pending a search warrant, which they believe contains further evidence related to drug trafficking.
The arrests carry increased severity as the incident took place within 1,000 feet of a designated Safe or School Zone, classifying the drug charges as Class A felonies.
The offense is punishable by a minimum of four years in prison, with potential sentences reaching up to 30 years if convicted.
Both Shorey and Blodgett were held at the Oxford County Jail and arraigned earlier today, with the court setting bail at $500 each.
Unable to post bail, they were subsequently transferred to the York County Jail to await trial or until bail is posted.
As the investigation unfolds, further charges and arrests may be forthcoming.
