Lansford, PA — Authorities have arrested seven individuals following a five-month investigation that exposed a multi-county narcotics operation tied to the Second Street gang in Allentown, according to Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday.
The operation led to the seizure of large quantities of methamphetamine, cocaine, fentanyl, ecstasy, and marijuana in a raid conducted last Thursday across multiple residences in Carbon and Schuylkill counties.
The alleged ringleader, Cruz “June” Rodriguez, 31, of New Philadelphia, Schuylkill County, is facing 23 felony counts related to drug trafficking, conspiracy, and illegal firearm possession.
Attorney General: ‘Taking Drug Dealers Off the Streets Is a Priority’
At a Tuesday news conference, Attorney General Dave Sunday described Rodriguez as the wholesale supplier who distributed controlled substances throughout the region. He reportedly supplied drugs to multiple dealers in Carbon and Schuylkill counties while maintaining close ties with the Allentown-based gang.
“Firearms and drug trafficking is a deadly mix that we’ve seen result in acts of violence across the Commonwealth,” said Sunday, emphasizing his office’s continued focus on combating organized narcotics activity.
Seized Drugs and Weapons
During the coordinated raids, authorities confiscated:
- 2+ pounds of methamphetamine
- 8 ounces of fentanyl
- 130 grams of marijuana
- 76 grams of synthetic marijuana
- 30 grams of cocaine
- 281 ecstasy pills
Investigators also found a stolen 9mm handgun in Rodriguez’s vehicle, which he was barred from possessing due to prior convictions, as reported.
Although the total street value of the drugs has not been disclosed, Sunday noted that just 2 milligrams of fentanyl can represent 112,000 potentially lethal doses — underscoring the danger posed by the seized narcotics.
The Network and Its Members
In addition to Rodriguez, the following individuals were arrested and charged:
- Elijah Marie Camacho, 29, of New Philadelphia, identified as Rodriguez’s girlfriend, accused of assisting with deliveries and collections.
- Justin Paul Heacock, 39, and Jose Nieves-Feliciano, 45, both of Coaldale, alleged distributors.
- Christopher Hazlett, 58, Kayla Marie Evert, 31, and William Todd Carter, 41, all of Lansford, believed to be street-level dealers.
Evert reportedly acted as a runner for higher-level traffickers, while Camacho allegedly drove Rodriguez to various locations to deliver drugs and collect proceeds. Investigators say Rodriguez “fronted” the narcotics to his associates, demanding repayment after sales.
“Those in his network feared going against him, as he often used threats and firearms to maintain control,” Sunday stated.
Ongoing Investigation and Charges
The case remains an active and ongoing investigation, with potential for additional arrests, according to the Attorney General’s Office.
Rodriguez faces multiple felony charges including:
- Two counts of corrupt organizations
- Three counts of delivery of a controlled substance
- Seven counts of possession with intent to deliver
- Six counts of conspiracy to deliver controlled substances
Other defendants face similar charges related to drug delivery, conspiracy, and criminal use of communication facilities.
Bail amounts ranged from $20,000 to $500,000, depending on each suspect’s role in the operation. Rodriguez, Carter, and Nieves-Feliciano remain in custody, while others have posted bail.
All seven defendants are expected to appear for a preliminary hearing on November 5 before District Judge Beth A. Dodson in Carbon County.
Community Reaction
The Attorney General’s Office emphasized that the dismantling of this operation represents a significant victory against organized drug networks in eastern Pennsylvania. Law enforcement continues to track connections between local suppliers and interstate sources in Pennsylvania and New York.
Residents expressed relief that a major trafficking ring has been taken down but remain concerned about the growing prevalence of fentanyl and other dangerous substances in small communities.
Do you believe local law enforcement is doing enough to combat drug trafficking in Pennsylvania? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
