ARNOLD, PA — Three people, including a 15-year-old boy, are facing drug and child endangerment charges after authorities seized crack cocaine and fentanyl from a home in Arnold, law enforcement officials announced.
The arrests followed the execution of a search warrant on April 18 at a residence on the 1500 block of Kenneth Avenue. Officers from the New Kensington Police Department, the Westmoreland County Drug Task Force, and agents with the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General discovered 129 grams of crack cocaine, suspected fentanyl, and drug paraphernalia inside the home.
Key Points:
- Police seized 129 grams of crack cocaine and suspected fentanyl from an Arnold home
- A 15-year-old was charged as a juvenile; the drugs were found in his bedroom
- A 4-year-old child had access to fentanyl inside the residence
Drugs found within reach of young children
Authorities said Desdrene Smith was located inside the residence along with her two grandchildren, ages 4 and 15. A substantial amount of crack cocaine was discovered hidden in the sleeve of a sweatshirt in the 15-year-old’s bedroom. The suspected fentanyl was found in an area accessible to the 4-year-old.
Smith has been charged with possession with intent to deliver, endangering the welfare of children, and possession of a controlled substance. The juvenile, whose name has not been released due to his age, is being held at a juvenile detention facility.
Warrant issued for child’s mother
Investigators have issued an arrest warrant for the boy’s mother, Brittany Shelton, who is also charged with possession with intent to deliver, endangering the welfare of children, and possession of a controlled substance. As of Wednesday, Shelton remains at large.
Authorities estimate the street value of the crack cocaine at nearly $13,000. The investigation is ongoing.
