IPSWICH — Police Chief Paul Nikas reports the Ipswich Police Department arrested a suspected drug trafficker yesterday following a diligent, two-month investigation involving multiple local, regional and federal agencies.
As a result of the investigation, JASON MARTINEZ, AGE 40, OF SALEM, was charged with:
- Trafficking in Cocaine
- Distribution of Fentanyl
- Distribution of Cocaine (3 Counts)
- Conspiracy to Violate Drug Laws (3 Counts)
At the conclusion of the investigation, on Thursday, May 13, at 11:45 a.m. MARTINEZ was arrested by Ipswich Police on an arrest warrant.
During his arrest, MARTINEZ was found to be in possession of 31 individually wrapped bags of a white substance weighing 65 grams in total. During a field test performed by police on one of the bags, the substance was found to be cocaine.
MARTINEZ also had three bags of a light brown substance weighing 5.5 grams in all. During a field test performed by police on one of the bags, the substance was found to be fentanyl.
Police also seized a quantity of cash and paraphernalia commonly used in the packaging, sale and distribution of illegal drugs.
“I would like to commend all the involved officers and federal agents for their professionalism and determination during this two month long investigation,” Chief Nikas said. “Their coordinated efforts resulted in the arrest of a large scale drug dealer operating in Ipswich and other area communities on the North Shore. This arrest demonstrates the need for law enforcement to continue to be vigilant in every community, large or small, to protect our citizens from drug dealers who prey on people with substance abuse conditions.”
Members of the Ipswich Police Department who played key roles in the investigation and arrest include: Detective Edward Gallivan, Detective Perter Dziadose, Officer Brian Reed, Officer Ryan Mayer and Officer Dan Holway.
The Ipswich Police Department also wishes to recognize and thank the following agencies for their assistance during the investigation and arrest: the Drug Enforcement Administration — Boston Task Force One, Massachusetts State Police, Somerville Police Department, Arlington Police Department, Medford Police Department, Peabody Police Department, Beverly Police Department and Gloucester Police Department.
MARTINEZ is being held on $50,000 cash bail and was required to surrender his passport. He was arraigned Thursday at Ipswich District Court.
These are allegations. All suspects are innocent until proven guilty.
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