SPRINGFIELD, MA — Five people were arrested Tuesday following a months-long investigation into illegal drug distribution that resulted in the seizure of cocaine, fentanyl, ammunition and cash.
Members of the Springfield Police Firearms Investigation Unit, Emergency Services Unit and Hampden County Sheriff’s Department executed a search warrant at an apartment complex on Fort Pleasant Avenue at approximately 4:10 p.m. on Jan. 13.
Police had been investigating the illegal distribution of crack-cocaine involving a 17-year-old female suspect over the past several months, according to authorities.
While conducting surveillance Tuesday, detectives observed Regina Riopel, 45, of Springfield, enter the apartment and suspected her of purchasing drugs.
Detectives detained Riopel on a stairwell, recovered crack-cocaine and placed her under arrest.
Officers then executed the warrant and detained four suspects inside the apartment: the 17-year-old female, Michael Baez, 39, of Springfield, Monica Young, 47, of Springfield, and Vincent Mondon, 48, of Springfield.
During the search, detectives recovered approximately 209 bags of suspected fentanyl, 78 grams of powder and crack-cocaine, more than $2,000 in cash and loose ammunition.
Baez, Young and Mondon were each charged with cocaine trafficking 36-100 grams, possession with the intent to distribute a Class A drug, possession of ammunition without an FID card and conspiracy to violate drug laws.
Riopel was charged with possession of a Class B drug.
The 17-year-old female’s name and specific charges were not released due to her age.
