HEROIN EPIDEMIC: Barnstable Detectives strike back with massive dope seizure…
The following is the actual Barnstable Police press release:
LARGE QUANTITY OF HEROIN RECOVERED IN CENTERVILLE
Over the past several months, the Town of Barnstable has experienced a high volume of heroin overdoses. Since 1/1/14, the BPD has responded to 26 reported heroin overdoses. Four of the overdoses have been fatal. Consequently, the BPD Narcotics Unit has been proactively targeting local heroin traffickers.
Over the past two months, BPD Detectives have been investigating Russell Viera (age 23 of Hyannis) for distributing large quantities of heroin from the Craigville Motel in Centerville, MA.
During the investigation, multiple undercover purchases of heroin were conducted from Viera, who was residing in room 41 of the Craigville Motel. As a result of the investigation, Det. Peter Ginnetty obtained a search warrant for Viera’s room. The search warrant was executed yesterday (4/8). The search resulted in the seizure of approximately 90 grams of heroin, over 2 pounds of marijuana, and approximately $1700 in cash. The street value of the drugs is approximately $25,000. [see top photo]
Both Viera and his girlfriend Chelsea Blackwell (age 21 of Harwich) were arrested when they returned to the room. Both suspects were charged with Trafficking Heroin (36-100 grams), Possession of Marijuana [with Intent] to Distribute, and Conspiracy to Violate the Controlled Substance Act.
Viera and Blackwell were arraigned this morning in Barnstable District Court. Viera was held on $10,000 bail. Blackwell was released on personal recognizance.
The above press release and photos were furnished by the Barnstable Police Detective Division.
4/9/2014
