In a solid win for East Boston's Maverick Landing community, a local drug den has been busted following a multi-agency operation. District Attorney Kevin Hayden announced the wrap-up of a six-month investigation that culminated in the raid of a 44 Border Street housing building on May 7, identifying it as a "problem property" for persistent drug-related disturbances. According to the Suffolk County District Attorney, the search yielded over 100 grams of cocaine, over 60 grams of Fentanyl, and cash to the tune of $2,610.
Authorities have had their hands full with this residential hot spot, responding to 52 drug-related incidents over a span of 16 months. Hayden didn't hold back praise for Boston Police, iterating "This is one of those properties, primarily due to just a few out-of-control apartments," as stated by the Suffolk County District Attorney. The crackdown saw Boston Police Area A-7 Drug Control Unit join forces with D-4 and E-5 Units to execute multiple search warrants that listed four individuals and three apartments in the building.
Ten people got caught in the net of Operation Clean House, with charges ranging from drug trafficking to outstanding warrants. Samuel Junta and Kerry Bell both face trafficking charges for more than 70 grams of Class B substances. Meanwhile, Reinaldo Diaz got slapped with a charge for possession with intent to distribute Class A substances, while also juggling a fugitive from justice charge for a case in Rhode Island, and was ordered held without bail, Hayden said.
Others snagged in the operation, like Youssef Benelmir and Christina Dionizio, found themselves under arrest for outstanding warrants. A handful, such as Victoria Herrera and Amin Roundil, were charged with trespassing—proof that the police aren't overlooking any offense in their steadfast commitment to community safety. Some of the accused have already seen the inside of a courtroom, with a diverse array of bail amounts and release conditions served up. Those remaining will face the music at future dates.
Hayden emphasized the importance of continued vigilance in the area, vowing to keep a watchful eye on 44 Border Street. "This situation gets right to the heart of peacefulness in our neighborhoods and safety on our streets," Hayden stressed in a statement by the Suffolk County District Attorney, positioning the actions of Boston police as a direct and necessary response to the challenge posed by a single property ravaging the community's sense of security.
