WEST HAZLETON, PA — A man was arrested and charged with drug offenses following the execution of a search warrant at a South Broad Street residence on March 5, 2026.
Sammy Sanchez Polanco was taken into custody by members of the Hazleton Police Department Special Response Team at approximately 6:05 a.m.
The search warrant was the result of a two-month investigation conducted by the HPD Narcotics Unit as part of the Luzerne County Drug Task Force, supported by the West Hazleton Police Department.
During the investigation, HPD Narcotics Detectives conducted several surveillance operations and controlled purchases of cocaine from Sanchez Polanco, also known as “24.”
Numerous attempts were made to positively identify Sanchez Polanco using law enforcement databases and social media, but his identity was not verified until he was taken into custody.
After evidence was gathered and probable cause was established, detectives applied for a search warrant, which was approved by the Luzerne County District Attorney’s Office and signed by a magistrate.
During the search of the residence, approximately 500 grams of cocaine, cutting agent, processing and packaging materials, approximately 25 grams of marijuana and a handgun were seized as evidence.
Detectives could not locate any identifying documents for Sanchez Polanco during the search.
Sanchez Polanco was processed and arraigned on one felony count of possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance.
A magistrate denied bail, and Sanchez Polanco was lodged at the Luzerne County Correctional Facility.
