Columbia man arrested after joint drug investigation seizes $284k in cocaine

Columbia man arrested after joint drug investigation seizes $284k in cocaine

November 22, 2024

LANCASTER, Pa. — A joint investigation by the Lancaster County Drug Task Force (DTF) and Homeland Security Investigations led to the arrest of a Columbia man earlier this month and the seizure of more than $284,000 worth of cocaine and marijuana, authorities announced.

Roderick Gonzalez-Perez was charged with possession with intent to distribute cocaine, possession with intent to distribute marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia following a search warrant at his residence on the 800 block of Blunston Street on October 4.

The investigation began on October 1 after a package containing more than five kilograms of cocaine was intercepted in transit from Puerto Rico to Gonzalez-Perez’s address. Labeled for “Senior Perez,” the package was seized by law enforcement, who coordinated with the Drug Task Force to deliver the cocaine to the suspect’s home. Gonzalez-Perez was arrested without incident after retrieving the package.

Columbia man arrested after joint drug investigation seizes $284k in cocaine
Photo: columbia man arrested after joint drug investigation seizes $284k in cocaine

A subsequent search of the residence uncovered an additional 888 grams of cocaine and 1,137 grams of marijuana in Gonzalez-Perez’s vehicle. Days later, on October 7, authorities executed a second warrant at the home and found another package containing approximately two kilograms of cocaine.

In total, law enforcement seized 8.1 kilograms of cocaine valued at $283,500, 1,137 grams of marijuana worth $11,370, and $1,161 in cash.

Judge Michael Hess set Gonzalez-Perez’s bail at $500,000. He remains in Lancaster County Prison as the case proceeds.

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