HOLYOKE, MA — A multi-agency operation targeting open-air drug distribution resulted in seven arrests Thursday, police announced.
Members of the Holyoke Police Department Narcotics/Vice Unit and Criminal Investigations Bureau, along with the Massachusetts State Police Gang Unit, conducted the operation in the area of Soucy Park, Spring Street, Clemente Street and Main Street.
Five people were arrested for possession of Class A drugs, including heroin and fentanyl, and Class B drugs, including cocaine and crack cocaine.
Two suspected dealers were identified during the operation.
Detectives observed Matthew Peterson and Jessica Holmes allegedly distributing narcotics in and around Soucy Park, according to Police Chief Brian Keenan.
Around 5:45 p.m., Peterson and Holmes got onto their scooters and rode away at the sight of police.
Officers conducted a traffic stop on Hamilton Street.
Holmes was detained, while Peterson continued riding.
Peterson was taken into custody near 720 Main Street.
Investigators recovered approximately 50 bags of suspected heroin and fentanyl, suspected crack cocaine and suspected powder cocaine from Holmes.
In total, investigators seized 2.125 grams of suspected heroin and fentanyl and 6.11 grams of suspected cocaine and crack cocaine.
Matthew Peterson, 40, of Ware, is charged with distribution of a Class A drug, possession with the intent to distribute a Class A drug, two counts of distribution of a Class B drug, possession with the intent to distribute a Class B drug, disorderly conduct and resisting arrest.
Jessica Holmes, 30, of Brookfield, is charged with distribution of a Class A drug, possession with the intent to distribute a Class A drug, two counts of distribution of a Class B drug and possession with the intent to distribute a Class B drug.
