8 indicted in heroin, fentanyl distribution ring

 

FREDERICK, Md. – A grand jury indicted eight members of a criminal drug organization involved in the distribution of opiates today. The case was investigated by the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force, which comprises Homeland Security Investigations, Maryland State Police Maryland Major Traffickers Initiative, Frederick County Narcotics Unit and the Frederick Police Department.

“Heroin and fentanyl are insidious substances that tear at the fabric of our communities and threaten public safety, “ said Andre R. Watson, Special Agent in Charge for HSI Baltimore. “Today’s events should clearly demonstrate the intensity and tenacity with which law enforcement attacks this issue and what successful interagency partnerships like this one can accomplish.”

The multijurisdictional investigation revealed a network of individuals selling and using large quantities of heroin and fentanyl and began in early 2016, following a spate of opiate overdoses in the area. Today’s charges were filed against Colby Lewis, 24; Ronald Dinges, 56; Alexandra Kastner, 27; Alante Williams; 24, Deandre Coplin, 27; Jocelyn Appleby, 26; Brett Demeza, 35 and Brett Carpenter, 35. All are Frederick County residents.

Investigative efforts were consolidated to pool efforts and resources focused on dismantling the criminal organization. Members of each agency worked cooperatively through undercover operations, controlled purchases and covert surveillance to develop additional intelligence and evidence. Enforcement operations conducted in May and June resulted in the seizure of heroin, cocaine, marijuana, crack cocaine, oxycodone, and methadone, approximately $4,500.00 in U.S. currency, 17 firearms, and three vehicles.

The HIDTA program is a federal grant program administered by the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy and provides resources to assist federal, state, local and tribal agencies coordinate activities that address drug trafficking in specially designated areas of the United States. The program also encourages the facilitation of cooperation among law enforcement agencies to share information and implement coordinated enforcement activities. Frederick, Maryland was designated as a HIDTA in November of 2013 and is one of 28 HIDTAs across the United States.