MERIDEN — A surveillance operation led to the arrest of a Meriden man on charges of narcotics and firearms possession, police said Wednesday.
Edward Mercado, 32, was detained on Aug. 7 after the Crime Suppression Unit of the Meriden Police Department observed him engaging in what appeared to be a drug transaction.
When approached by officers, Mercado attempted to flee but was quickly apprehended.
A search of Mercado’s vehicle yielded about 7 ½ ounces of cocaine, roughly 5 ounces of fentanyl, nearly 12 pounds of marijuana, a stolen Glock .45 caliber pistol, and $35,880 in cash.
Further investigation led authorities to a storage unit rented by Mercado, where a stolen 2019 Corvette and a .380 caliber pistol were discovered.
Mercado, a convicted felon, faces multiple charges including interference with police, possession of narcotics, possession with intent to sell, operating a drug factory, and several firearms violations, including criminal possession of a firearm.
Held on a $750,000 bond, Mercado is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition due to his felony status.
The Meriden Police Department encourages anyone with information on narcotics or violent crimes to contact the Crime Suppression Unit or the Major Crimes Unit.
