More that 30 people are facing Massachusetts drug charges in Taunton and the surrounding areas after a three-day sweep at week's end, the Taunton Gazette reported.
The raids began on Wednesday and the Bristol County District Attorney's Office expected the arrests to continue through Friday as authorities targeted alleged heroine and crack cocaine dealers and customers. Dubbed Operation Diesel, more than 30 arrest warrants were being executed, according to the Massachusetts State Police.
A Taunton criminal defense lawyer should always be consulted in cases where a defendant is charged as part of such large-scale drug raids. Police and prosecutors love to make big announcements. But frequently such cases are not very strong and prosecutors are forced to quietly reduce or dismiss charges long after the television cameras have been turned off. Defendants should not make any statements until speaking to a Massachusetts defense lawyer experienced in handling drug charges. Evidence can be challenged. The results of search warrants can sometimes be kept out of court. But a defendant's statements can be the most damaging evidence in cases where a suspect fails to remain silent and wait for the assistance of an experienced attorney.
Defendants were being arraigned in Taunton District Court and Fall River Superior Court. At least 18 people were arrested on warrants on Wednesday. Defendants ranged in age from 17 to 50.
Most of the arrested were for charges alleged in arrest warrants, but authorities report making at least one undercover drug buy. State troopers and Taunton police said they initiated a buy on the grounds of the Riverside Apartments on Paul Bunker Drive. Authorities say an undercover officer was led to nearby Harrison Street, where occupants of a Chrysler van allegedly sold him crack cocaine.
Four people were arrested after the van was followed to a nearby convenience store.
Taunton Defense Attorney Michael DelSignore represents clients facing OUI charges, drug charges and other serious misdemeanor and felony offenses in Taunton and the surrounding areas, including Berkley, Easton, Rehoboth, Dighton, Raynham and Seekonk.
The Law Offices of Michael DelSignore are conveniently located in Stoughton and Attleboro. Call (508) 455-4755 for a free consultation, 24 hours a day, including weekends and holidays.
