A multi-agency task force arrested 15 people suspected of running a cocaine ring in New Haven, Conn., area, according to the FBI.
A federal grand jury returned a superseding indictment charging 26 individuals with narcotics trafficking offenses.
The charges stem from an FBI Safe Streets Task Force investigation with officers from the Ansonia, Hamden, New Haven, and Milford Police Departments, as well as the State of Connecticut Department of Correction. The West Haven Police Department also provided valuable assistance to the investigation.
In the investigation, the task force used court-authorized wiretaps on four telephones. The defendants were recorded on numerous occasions allegedly arranging the purchase and distribution of what ultimately amounted to kilograms of cocaine.
Nine of the men charged in the superseding indictment were originally charged in an indictment that was returned in December. The superseding indictment, which was returned on Feb. 24, charges an additional 17 defendants. Fifteen of the newly charged defendants were arrested this morning. Two individuals are currently being sought by law enforcement.
During the course of the investigation, task force agents seized seven kilograms of cocaine and more than $27,000. View the full list of defendants at the FBI's New Haven division website.
If convicted of this charge, each defendant faces between 10 years and life imprisonment, as well as a fine up to $4 million.
