Prosecutors in Pennsylvania announced on July 20 that an investigation into drug distribution in Schuylkill, Berks and Lancaster Counties led to the arrest of seven suspects and the seizure of significant quantities of synthetic marijuana. Police also seized heroin, cocaine, several firearms and cash during what was dubbed “Operation Crystal Blue.” Agencies taking part in the investigation include the Pennsylvania State Police, the Reading Police Department and the Berks County Drug Task Force. The individuals who were arrested all face multiple drug possession and distribution charges.
Electronic surveillance yields important evidence
The investigation initially focused on a 28-year-old Berks County man. On June 20, investigators obtained a warrant to keep the man under electronic surveillance after allegedly learning that he was distributing bulk quantities of substances, including methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl and cocaine, in at least three counties. This surveillance led investigators to several additional suspects and locations in Fleetwood and Reading. When search warrants were executed at a storage facility and a residence, investigators allegedly found about 53 pounds of synthetic cannabinoids along with a loaded gun and $15,200 in US currency.
Investigators execute search warrants
The prime suspect was taken into custody on outstanding narcotics warrants during a traffic stop in Berks County on July 20. A search of his vehicle led to the discovery of a hidden compartment containing a loaded handgun and $14,750 in cash. Two days later, investigators executed search warrants at locations in Reading, West Reading, Lancaster and Columbia. These searches allegedly led to the seizure of a rifle, two pistols, about a pound of marijuana, several containers that were being used to store THC, 8 pounds of synthetic cannabinoids, an ounce of cocaine and $2,000 in cash.
Negotiated plea agreements in narcotics cases
Prosecutors are often eager to close narcotics cases successfully when law enforcement has worked diligently to gather evidence, and they may be willing to make attractive plea offers to suspects who are willing to cooperate. However, these offers tend to become far less generous when prosecutors believe that their cases have become strong enough. If you are remanded into custody on drug charges during an operation like this one, an experienced criminal defense attorney may advise you to act quickly if you are considering pleading guilty in return for a reduced sentence.
