SPRINGFIELD — In a significant drug bust on Wednesday, Springfield Police Department’s Firearms Investigation Unit, C3 North End, and Hampden County Sheriff’s Department confiscated a large amount of illegal drugs and arrested four individuals on trafficking and possession charges.
During an afternoon operation, detectives were surveilling Jorge Ortiz-Vazquez on Harrison Avenue when they witnessed a drug deal within his vehicle.
Rafael Lopez-Santiago, who left the scene on a moped, was later apprehended on the 1600 block of Main Street by C3 North End Officers, leading to the recovery of cocaine and his arrest.
Continued surveillance led detectives to another suspect vehicle on the 600 block of Main Street, where they observed and interrupted another transaction.
Jose Ortiz was arrested near Main and Loring Streets after detectives found him in possession of crack-cocaine and heroin.
The operation culminated when Ortiz-Vazquez and his passenger, Odalys Pesquera, attempted to flee but were stopped near the intersection of William and Dale Streets.
Ortiz-Vazquez was captured following a brief attempt to escape on foot.
A subsequent search of their car uncovered significant quantities of cocaine, heroin, and pre-packaged marijuana.
Both occupants were arrested.
Authorities seized a total of $711 from Ortiz-Vazquez, around 400 bags of heroin, crack-cocaine, and over 53 grams of cocaine in the operation.
The suspects face various charges, with 54-year-old Jorge Ortiz-Vazquez and 31-year-old Odalys Pesquera, both facing trafficking in cocaine, distribution of Class A and B drugs, and possession with intent to distribute Class A, B, and D drugs.
Meanwhile, 56-year-old Jose Ortiz is charged with possession of Class A and B drugs, and 43-year-old Rafael Lopez-Santiago faces a charge of possession of a Class B drug.
The Springfield Police Department has not released further details about the investigation or the suspects’ arraignment dates.
