HOLYOKE, MA — Holyoke police seized more than 100 bags of suspected heroin/fentanyl and 30 vials of crack-cocaine from an armed suspect Monday.
Police Chief Brian Keenan announced the arrest following the incident that occurred around 11 a.m. in the area of Clemente Street and Cabot Street.
Sgt. John Veit was conducting an unrelated well-being check when he observed a subject, later identified as Josue Ortiz, trespassing on private property.
As Sgt. Veit and Officer Phil Murphy approached the subject, he began to run away.
Officers noticed various drug paraphernalia where Ortiz was loitering.
A foot pursuit began and Sgt. Veit and Officer Mark Gubala were able to catch up to Ortiz on South East Street.
Ortiz continued to resist as additional officers arrived and were able to take him into custody.
Officers located a blood-filled needle clenched in his hand.
Officers also seized approximately 115 bags of suspected heroin/fentanyl, approximately 30 vials of suspected crack-cocaine and two large knives.
While Ortiz was being escorted to a cruiser, he kicked an officer.
Ortiz has prior convictions for both distributing and possessing narcotics.
Josue Ortiz, 31, of Holyoke is charged with possession with the intent to distribute a Class A drug, subsequent offense; possession with the intent to distribute a Class B drug, subsequent offense; possession of a Class A drug, subsequent offense; possession of a Class B drug, subsequent offense; carrying a dangerous weapon; trespassing; disorderly conduct; resisting arrest; and assault and battery on a police officer.
