FRANKLIN — The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, with assistance from the Franklin Police Department, concluded a three-month investigation into drug trafficking in the city that resulted in 27 arrests over two days.
On Aug. 26, agents and Franklin officers executed three search warrants, arrested 17 individuals, and seized approximately $100,000 in cash, a firearm, and illegal narcotics.
On Aug. 27, enforcement actions continued with 10 additional arrests and the clearing of a homeless encampment involved in drug distribution.
The investigation began after the DEA, working with Franklin Police, developed intelligence on a drug trafficking network operating in the city.
Over two months, DEA agents supported by Franklin detectives conducted surveillance, gathered evidence, and built cases that led to this week’s enforcement actions.
“The DEA took the lead on this case, and we are proud to have supported their efforts,” said Chief Dan Poirier of the Franklin Police Department.
“By working together, we were able to remove a significant drug trafficking operation from our community,” Poirier said.
“The Sinaloa Cartel in Mexico has a strong hold on drug distribution in New England and this week’s enforcement action attacked their street level distribution network,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Jarod Forget of the New England Field Division.
“This case is an excellent example of how federal leadership and local cooperation can come together to protect communities like Franklin from the dangers of drug trafficking,” Forget said.
Also participating were members of the New Hampshire State Police, Merrimack County Sheriff’s Office, Alexandria Police Department, Andover Police Department, Northfield Police Department, Salem Police K-9 unit, and Bristol Police Department.
Some arrests were directly tied to drug trafficking, while others were unrelated but part of the operation.
Names and charges are not being released at this time.
