NEW BEDFORD – A local couple has been arrested on fentanyl trafficking charges after New Bedford narcotics detectives made a sizable drug bust. Forty-year-old Antonio Concepcion-Diaz and thirty-nine-year-old Yarisbeth Rojas-Lopez, both residents of 164 Richmond St, now face severe charges as detectives collected evidence of an expansive illegal operation.
The arrest occurred on April 4 following an intensive investigation led by Detective Jonathan Miranda. The detective tapped into an operation that had spurred an anonymous tip from a vigilant citizen, bringing him to the couple's doorstep. As result of their findings, police secured and executed search warrants for the house and two vehicles associated to the suspects.
The search by New Bedford police unearthed substantially incriminating materials. Officers retrieved approximately 365 grams of fentanyl and 16 grams of cocaine, alongside scales and other paraphernalia deemed essential for narcotics distribution. The raid also led to the confiscation of $4,287 in cash, believed to be proceeds from the couple's illicit drug sales.
In the aftermath, Concepcion-Diaz and Rojas-Lopez were charged with trafficking fentanyl in excess of 200 grams, possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, and conspiracy to violate the controlled substance laws. New Bedford PD quoted Chief Paul Oliveira, "As the opiate crisis continues to take lives at an alarming rate all across the country, our officers continue to target the biggest offenders who are perpetuating problem. We continue to fight this epidemic on multiple fronts, and I’m proud of all the efforts aimed at saving lives."
This crack down on local drug operations signals a larger commitment by New Bedford authorities to combat the escalating opioid crisis. Community members are encouraged to contribute any valuable information to police, ensuring anonymity through the department’s website or the dedicated crime reporting hotline.
