An estimated 10 million doses of controlled substances have been seized, including eight million doses of fentanyl and methamphetamine laced pills and powder. The total street value of the drugs seized is upwards of $8 million. Three men have been arrested in connection with allegedly running this large-scale drug trafficking organization (DTO) on the North Shore of Massachusetts.
Emilio Garcia, also known as 6, 25, of Lynn, Massachusetts, was charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and possess controlled substances with intent to distribute and one count of possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute; Sebastien Bejin, also known as Bash, 33, of Lynn, Massachusetts, was charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and possess controlled substances with intent to distribute and one count of possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute; and Deiby Felix, 40, of Lynn, Massachusetts, was charged with one count of possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute. The defendants will appear in U.S. District Court on Nov. 13.
According to the charging documents, in July 2023, an investigation into an overdose death in Salem, Massachusetts, led investigators to a DTO allegedly led by Garcia, Bejin, and Felix. The defendants were surveilled for three months, which culminated in search warrants at locations identified in the investigation, and their arrests on Wednesday, Nov. 1.
On Nov. 1, searches were conducted at four locations in Lynn. These were identified as locations frequented by Garcia and Bejin. The searches resulted in, what is believed to be, one of the largest single-location seizures of fentanyl and methamphetamine in Massachusetts and the region. Over 100 kilograms (220 pounds) of controlled substances were seized. The seizure included nine kilograms (20 pounds) of pink heart shaped fentanyl-laced pills pressed to look like candy.
In total, an estimated eight million individual doses of fentanyl and methamphetamine laced pills and powder was seized. The street value is believed to be upwards of $8 million.
More specifically, according to the charging documents, the following drug quantities were seized from the basement of a two-family residential home that was occupied by multiple families and small children:
More than 10 kilograms (22 pounds) of white powder and rock like substances which field tested positive for methamphetamine and cocaine base;
More than 17 kilograms (37 pounds) of suspected raw methamphetamine which equates to approximately more than 3.5 million individual doses;
Approximately 280,000 counterfeit Percocet pills, believed to contain fentanyl, weighing 28 kilograms (61 pounds) with a street value in the range of approximately $1.4 million to over $7 million;
More than 27 kilograms (59 pounds) of counterfeit Adderall pills, believed to contain methamphetamine; and
Approximately 1.8 kilograms (four pounds) of brown rock and powder-like substances, which tested positive for cocaine, fentanyl, and methamphetamine. This quantity of fentanyl equates to about 900,000 individual doses.
Additional narcotics and five firearms were also seized during the searches.
“The only thing more depraved than trafficking deadly fentanyl is trafficking deadly fentanyl designed to look like candy to appeal to teenagers,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “The Justice Department is focused on attacking every link in the global fentanyl trafficking chain, and we will not stop until those responsible for the fentanyl poisoning epidemic are brought to justice. We also continue to urge families to have open and honest conversations about the urgent threat posed by this epidemic, and the fact that just one pill can kill.”
“This seizure by the FBI’s North Shore Gang Task Force saved lives in communities throughout Massachusetts,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “Not only was this seizure one of the largest in the history of Massachusetts, but some of the pills were created to look like candy, potentially presenting an enormous risk to children. The FBI will continue to relentlessly pursue those involved in narcotics trafficking to keep drugs off our streets, and out of the hands of children.”
“The doses of controlled substances seized in this case exceed the number of residents in Massachusetts,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Joshua S. Levy for the District of Massachusetts. “The fact that we now are seeing fentanyl-laced pills pressed to resemble candy only underscores the urgency of this fentanyl crisis.”
Surveillance during the investigation revealed that Garcia and Bejin would travel to the Broadway stash location on a daily basis and then bring quantities of suspected from the premises to supply lower-level dealers. One such location that appeared to be supplied from the main stash location was an address at 341 Western Avenue in Lynn, where Deiby Felix is alleged to reside. A search of 341 Western Avenue revealed more than three kilograms (6.6 pounds) of pressed pills containing methamphetamine and fentanyl, consistent with those found in the Broadway stash location and a firearm.
The charges of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, and conspiracy to do the same, each provide for a sentence of a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after reviewing the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The FBI Boston Field Office investigated the case, with valuable assistance provided by the Essex County District Attorney’s Office, Massachusetts State Police, Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Boston Division, IRS-Criminal Investigation in Boston, and the Chelsea, Lynnfield, Salem and Lynn Police Departments.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Philip A. Mallard of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit for the District of Massachusetts is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Well, well, well, it looks like the time has come for that delightful little tradition known as “fall back.”
That’s right, folks, grab your comfiest pajamas and get ready to indulge in an extra hour of precious, glorious sleep. Because on Sunday, Nov. 5 at 2 a.m., daylight saving time will bid us adieu for 2023, and our clocks will go back an hour, giving us a much-needed respite from the hustle and bustle of our daily lives.
Ah, sweet, sweet Standard Time, how we’ve missed you. In a blink of an eye, the time officially changes at 2:00 a.m. local time to become 1:00 a.m., magically granting us the hour we so cruelly lost in the spring.
But fear not, my weary friends, for this impending magical time shift will bestow upon us the precious gift of an extra hour of sleep.
So, whether you’re a snooze-button enthusiast or a connoisseur of all things cozy, get ready to savor that sweet, sweet slumber. Embrace the joy of an extended stay in dreamland, for tomorrow’s alarm will be silenced for just a little while longer.
Sleep tight, my friends, and may your dreams be as delightful as this extra hour of sleep.
*UPDATE – November 4* – Marion Post investigating fatal plane crash in Marion County
The occupants of the Piper have been identified. The left front seat occupant was Hal E. Durbin, 71, Findlay, and the right front seat occupant was William J. David, 70, Bowling Green. The incident remains under investigation.
Marion Post investigating fatal plane crash in Marion County
MARION – The Marion Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal plane crash that occurred today at approximately 11:30 a.m. in Pleasant Township.
The preliminary investigation show ed a Piper Cherokee Six crashed into a bean field, approximately nine miles southwest of the Marion Municipal Airport. The single-engine Piper sustained major damage and the two occupants suffered fatal injuries.
The names of the occupants are being withheld at this time, pending positive identification.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol was assisted at the scene by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, Marion County Coroner’s Office, Pleasant Township Fire Department, Battle Run Fire District, Fort Morrow Fire District, 1st Consolidated Fire District and the Federal Aviation Administration.
The National Transportation Safety Board has been notified and the incident remains under investigation.
On October 27, 2023, E. Third Street officially opened as a two-way street, marking a significant change in traffic flow. However, tonight, this transition led to the first accident on this newly transformed road.
At approximately 9:30 pm, Ashland Police Division Officers, Ashland Fire Department, and EMS swiftly responded to a two-vehicle crash on E. Third Street, at the intersection of N. Central Street.
The confusion surrounding the recent alteration seemed to have played a role in this unfortunate incident.
The driver of the at fault vehicle, a lifelong resident, admitted that he mistakenly believed E. Third Street was still a one-way street. Consequently, he found himself driving on the wrong side, inadvertently causing this collision.
Thankfully, the injuries sustained were minor, and two individuals were transported to the hospital by Ashland EMS for further examination.
It is important to note that drugs and alcohol were ruled out as contributing factors to the crash.
As the community adjusts to this new traffic pattern, it is crucial for everyone to remain vigilant and aware of the recent changes to ensure the safety of all motorists.
As a weekly library patron, of course I want the library to update its collection on a regular basis. But how much does an already full library need updated yearly and at what cost to the taxpayers, especially in the digital age?
Public Records Requests and emails with library officials have yielded the following information: In the 2023 $2.5 million budget (combining state and local funding), $240,300 was allocated for “Library Materials and Information.” During this year alone, 8,725 physical items have been added to the library, not counting digital items accessed by subscriptions. These physical items were manufactured (many from trees), transported (burning fuel and polluting the environment), and processed into the library system (using costly work hours). To make room for these new items in an already full library, it would make sense that around 8,000 “old” materials acquired the same way had to be processed out of the system and then discarded or sold at a fraction of the original cost.
Financially and environmentally, this goes against everything we know about conservation and trustworthy stewardship of resources. According to their own admission in public information, the library repeats such terrible waste every single year as our taxes rise.
Additionally, based on a Public Records Request of book titles purchased over the past five years, no fewer than several hundred books placed in the Juvenile, Youth, and Young Adult sections had themes of sexuality, transgenderism, and CRT. Not just the five books discussed at board meetings in 2022, not just a few dozen (plenty if the motive had only been to “educate”), but actually hundreds are now in Ashland’s library. This obsessive focus on one particular set of topics isn’t healthy or without consequences.
Some would argue that a “no” vote on the November 7th levy would “defund” the library. However, this temporary funding reduction in local funding, until another levy passes, would simply be a wake-up call to teach the library to spend more wisely and be accountable to the taxpayers. As the levy doesn’t affect state funding, its defeat wouldn’t close the library’s doors. No one is trying to do that.
The $2.5 million budget for the library isn’t for APL Board Members to waste, especially on obsessive agendas as they see fit. Please vote “no” on the library levy.
Once again, the Ashland County Sheriff Office Bomb Squad answered the call for assistance today, proving yet again their unwavering commitment to public safety.
This particular mission led them to Sherman Pl in Mansfield, Ohio, following over a dozen other calls this year alone. Their primary concern on this occasion was the possibility of old war ordnances lurking in the area, potentially posing a significant threat.
With their expertise and cutting-edge technology, the Bomb Team x-rayed the suspected ordnances, revealing possible traces of explosive material.
According the records of the Ashland County Sheriff Office, the x-ray results indicated that these ordnances may still contain unknown substances.
Although the investigation is ongoing, preliminary tests suggest that at least one of these potentially lethal weapons is, indeed, genuine.
Through their relentless dedication and unwavering vigilance, the Ashland County Sheriff Office continues to safeguard the well-being of their community with unparalleled commitment.
On November 2, 2023, the Mansfield Police Department was notified of two possible threats made to “shoot up” Mansfield Sr. High School today and Arlin Field tonight.
The first threat was received around 1:15 p.m. Immediately, officers began working leads and by 1:25 p.m. the student had been both identified and taken into custody.
The student admitted to making the threats, however, he stated it was in retaliation for a comment made about him by another student. He further stated he had no intentions of committing the act. Charges are currently being sought.
While conducting the first investigation, officers began receiving a second set of potential threats regarding a shooting at the football game tonight at Arlin Field.
After investigating all aspects of the statements made and the sources, the threats could not be validated.
Because of these recent threats, school administrators decided to cancel today’s classes and also move tonight’s football game to Rocky River High School. Mansfield Police will be on hand at tonight’s game in Rocky River merely to assure everyone’s safety.
It should also be mentioned that it was the student’s diligence and willingness to assist in bringing these threats to light. Because of that officers were able to respond as quickly as they did. Again, anyone who hears or sees threats or potentially violent activity, please call your local Law enforcement agency immediately.
A group of prominent Ashland County leaders, including Ashland County Prosecutor Christopher R. Tunnell, Ashland County Sheriff’s Office Sheriff E. Wayne Risner, Former Ashland County Prosecutor Robert DeSanto, Ashland County Commissioner Vice President Denny Bittle, Candidate for Ashland County Sheriff Kurt Schneider, and Candidate for Ashland County Sheriff Chad Enderby, have come together to express their concern regarding Issue 2.
In a display of unity, these respected individuals highlight the potential negative repercussions this issue may have on the county. Their professional tone of voice carries a sense of sincerity as they explain their deep reservations.
Their collective expertise brings a weight to their concerns, emphasizing the importance of the issue at hand.
As Ashland County continues to navigate the complexities of governance and community development, these leaders’ concerns shed light on the potential consequences, urging the public to take a closer look at the issue and understand its impact on the State and County’s future.
Ashland County Prosecutor Christopher R. Tunnell on Issue 2
Ashland County Sheriff’s Office Sheriff E. Wayne Risner Talks on Issue 2
Former Ashland County Prosecutor Robert DeSanto on Issue 2
Ashland County Commissioner Vice President Denny Bittle on Issue 2
Kurt Schneider candidate for Ashland County Sheriff on Issue 2
Chad Enderby candidate for Ashland County Sheriff on Issue 2
Wooster Post Ohio Highway Patrol, New Pittsburg Twp Fire Department & EMS, and Jeromesville EMS responded to a two vehicle crash on US Route 30 just west of Elyria Road tonight.
One vehicle traveling Eastbound on US Route 30 was struck in the rear, sending it over the median into the Westbound lane of US Route 30, crashing into the guard rail, facing Eastbound in the Westbound lane.
At least one was transported to Wooster Hospital with unknown injuries.
Note: Sorry, I was unable to get the information, due to the trooper shift being over when I called. The other vehicle was on the Eastbound side and cleaned up by the time I arrived.
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Joe Lyons •
November 6, 2023
Well, well, well, it looks like the time has come for that delightful little tradition known as “fall back.”
*UPDATE – November 4* – Marion Post investigating fatal plane crash in Marion County
Once again, the Ashland County Sheriff Office Bomb Squad answered the call for assistance today, proving yet again their unwavering commitment to public safety.
Although the investigation is ongoing, preliminary tests suggest that at least one of these potentially lethal weapons is, indeed, genuine.
On November 2, 2023, the Mansfield Police Department was notified of two possible threats made to “shoot up” Mansfield Sr. High School today and Arlin Field tonight.
