Ross A. Atstupenas
Chief of Police
15 St. Paul St.
Blackstone, MA 01504
For Immediate Release
Monday, Aug. 7, 2017
Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net
Blackstone Police Arrest Alleged Drug Dealer
Drugs, Cash Seized After Investigation
BLACKSTONE — Police Chief Ross A. Atstupenas reports that the Blackstone Police Department has arrested an alleged drug dealer after a long-term investigation.
MICHAEL K. PITLER, AGE 38, OF BLACKSTONE was arrested after an investigation by Blackstone Police working in conjunction with the regional Blackstone Valley Drug Task Force. He was charged with:
- Possession of a Class B Substance (Fentanyl) with Intent to Distribute
- Possession of a Class B Substance (Fentanyl) with Intent to Distribute as a Repeat (Subsequent) Offender
- Possession of a Class B Substance (Cocaine) with Intent to Distribute
- Possession of a Class B Substance (Cocaine)
Early Monday morning, detectives executed a search warrant on PITLER’S home on Michelle Lane. The search resulted in the seizure of 6.4 grams of cocaine and a quantity of another substance, believed to be fentanyl. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid many times more powerful than heroin and is responsible for many of the lives lost to overdose during the nationwide opioid addiction epidemic that has been sweeping the country for several years.
“I am grateful for the hard work done by our Blackstone police officers and regional partners which resulted today in the removal of an alleged drug dealer from our community,” Chief Atstupenas said. “The possible presence of fentanyl raises the level of urgency, as this substance is responsible for so much devastation.”
PITLER was held by the Blackstone Police Department pending arraignment in Uxbridge District Court.
These are allegations. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty.
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