HOLYOKE — A multi-agency operation led to the arrest of a suspected drug dealer at Soucy Park on Tuesday, according to Holyoke Police Chief Brian Keenan.
Jason Swift, 40, of Springfield, was arrested by members of the Holyoke Police, Hampden County Narcotics Task Force, Massachusetts State Police Safe Unit and the FBI Western Massachusetts Gang Task Force.
Officers conducting surveillance observed Swift conducting suspected drug deals from a bench at the park’s playscape.
Task Force officers approached Swift and detained him.
Officers recovered approximately 89 bags of heroin/fentanyl, $100 in cash and approximately 15 vials of crack-cocaine and additional cash inside plastic bags.
As officers were clearing the park, a family drove by on Clemente Street where officers heard a young girl ask “can we play in the park now?”
Swift is charged with possession of a Class B drug, possession with intent to distribute a Class B drug, possession of a Class A drug, possession with intent to distribute a Class A drug, and drug violation near a school/park.
The operation was part of continuing efforts to address open-air drug dealing in city parks.
