WATERVILLE — Following a three-month investigation, the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency and Waterville Police Department announced Thursday the arrest of Omar Sims Marquez, 21, for multiple drug-related offenses and destroying evidence.
Marquez, a recent Connecticut transplant residing on Edwards Street, faces charges of Unlawful Aggravated Trafficking in Schedule Drugs (Fentanyl), a Class A offense, and Unlawful Trafficking in Schedule Drugs (Cocaine Base), a Class B violation, as well as Falsifying Physical Evidence, a Class D crime.
Authorities executed a search warrant at the 18 Edwards Street location around 8 a.m., discovering Marquez attempting to flush several plastic baggies containing approximately 35 grams of fentanyl and crack cocaine.
Agents successfully retrieved the baggies despite Marquez’s efforts to clog the toilet and destroy the evidence.
Further inspection of the residence led to the confiscation of additional drug trafficking evidence and $3,600 in suspected drug money.
Marquez was taken into custody and transported to the Kennebec County Jail, with bail set at $240,000 cash.
His court appearance is anticipated later in the week at Kennebec Unified Court.
While Marquez is presumed innocent until proven guilty, this ongoing investigation could lead to more arrests.
The MDEA continues its collaborative efforts with law enforcement partners to dismantle drug trafficking operations distributing hazardous substances like fentanyl within Maine.
The agency also reminds those struggling with substance use disorder to reach out for help by calling 211 or texting their zip code to 898-211.
Tips related to drug sales can be confidentially reported to the MDEA office, through TIP411 by texting MDEA, or by calling the tip-line.
