A multi-agency investigation into illegal drug trafficking in northeastern Pennsylvania has resulted in federal drug charges against fifteen people from Erie, New York, and Ohio.
The indictments, announced by U.S. Attorney Troy Rivetti during a press conference at Erie City Hall on May 18, are the result of a Homeland Security Task Force investigation into the sale of fentanyl and cocaine in the region.
The defendants are charged in two linked federal indictments. The first charges 13 people with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine, including large-scale cases that could result in harsh punishments.
The defendants of the first indictment include Abner Cintron, 40, of Jamestown, New York; Yirzak Caceres-Perez, 28, of West Babylon, New York; Thalia Dalie Lynch, 31, of Jamestown, New York; Alberto Daniel Arroyo-Amaro, 27, of Erie; Brayan Omar Arroyo-Amaro, 29, of Erie; Yanelite Amaro-Colon, 39, of Erie; Luis Serrano-Mojica, 34, of Youngstown, Ohio; Juan Gustavo Cartagena Sr., 31, of Erie; Landy Gerebee Pacheco-Mendez, 34, of Erie; and Lourdes Marie Cartagena, 30.
The second indictment charges two more people with a similar cocaine conspiracy, including defendants Luis Antonio DeJesus Jr., 46, of Erie, and Daniel Tirado, 45, of Erie.
If convicted, several of the defendants could face lengthy jail terms, with some accusations carrying a maximum punishment of life imprisonment.
Others risk maximum sentences ranging from 20 to 40 years in prison. Actual sentences would be determined by criteria such as the gravity of the charges and the defendant’s criminal history.
The inquiry lasted five months and entailed substantial collaboration from numerous authorities.
The Pennsylvania State Police also played an important role in the investigation, working with federal and local authorities.
Paul S. Sellers, Assistant US Attorney, is prosecuting the case.
Authorities emphasize that the indictments are accusations and that the individuals are deemed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
The arrests are part of a larger effort by the Homeland Security Task Force and the Northwest Pennsylvania Drug Initiative to coordinate resources across agencies in response to drug trafficking and other criminal activity in the area. According to officials, these alliances will remain vital in combating persistent drug concerns and protecting communities throughout northeastern Pennsylvania.
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