HOLYOKE — After a comprehensive investigation into illicit drug activities, the Holyoke Police Department’s Narcotics unit, alongside federal agencies, conducted a series of coordinated raids, resulting in multiple arrests and seizures at a Clemente Street address.
On Aug. 19, law enforcement officials executed three simultaneous search warrants on the second and fourth floors of 131 Clemente St., revealing a complex narcotics operation.
Agencies involved in the operation included the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Western Massachusetts FBI Gang Task Force, and the Counterdrug Initiative in New England Regional Enforcement Team (CINRET).
The individuals apprehended in connection to the drug distribution network face various charges.
April Richard, 47, was charged with possession of a Class A drug and conspiracy to violate drug laws.
Shaylee Richard, 28, faces multiple charges, including firearm possession without an FID card, possession of ammunition without an FID card, receipt of stolen property (firearm), conspiracy to violate drug laws, possession with intent to distribute Class A drugs (heroin), improper storage of a firearm, and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony.
Cesar Casiano, 51, was charged with possession of Class A drugs (heroin), possession with intent to distribute Class A drugs (heroin), possession of Class B drugs (cocaine), and possession with intent to distribute Class B drugs (cocaine), along with conspiracy to violate drug laws.
Gadiel Ramos-Cabrera, 28, was arrested on similar charges as Shaylee Richard, including firearm possession without an FID card, possession of ammunition without an FID card, receipt of stolen property (firearm), conspiracy to violate drug laws, possession with intent to distribute Class A drugs (heroin), improper storage of a firearm, and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony.
Brianna Ortiz, 28, was taken into custody for unlawful possession of a firearm without an FID card, possession of ammunition without an FID card, improper storage of a firearm, possession of a large capacity feeding device, and possession of Class B drugs (cocaine).
Peter Benitez, 35, was charged with conspiracy to violate drug laws.
During the execution of the search warrants, authorities seized two 9mm handguns (one reported stolen), an undisclosed amount of U.S. currency, quantities of heroin and cocaine, and a drone believed to be used for counter-surveillance purposes.
