SPRINGFIELD, MA – On Friday morning, Springfield Police Officers in the Narcotics Unit, C3 Forest Park Unit and C3 Mason Square Unit were conducting surveillance in the area of Keith Street and Dickinson Street in response to recent shootings and homicide.
Around 10:35am, Officers observed drug activity and stopped an individual on Hall Street who was suspected of buying drugs. Officers recovered five bags of heroin on him. The individual was detained and will be issued a criminal complaint for possession.
A short time later as officers continued surveillance they observed another drug transaction at Keith Street and Dickinson Street. Officers then stopped another individual on Alderman Street who was suspected of buying drugs. Officers recovered 5 bags of crack-cocaine and Jose Martinez was placed under arrest for possession.
Shortly after noon, Officers placed two individuals who were suspected of selling drugs under arrest. Officers arrested Yoniel Monsanto-Maldonado on the 100 block of Dickinson Street. Mr.
Monsanto-Maldonado had approximately 470 bags of heroin on him.
Officers then arrested a 17 year old with a loaded large capacity firearm and more than 100 bags of heroin in his pocket. The juvenile faces numerous firearms and drug charges. `
22 year old Yoniel Monsanto-Maldonado of Union Street is charged with:
• Distribution of a Class B Drug
• Possession with the Intent to Distribute a Class A Drug