In a substantial bust conducted by the Springfield Police Department's Firearms Investigation Unit (FIU), police seized over 2300 bags of heroin and an illegal firearm last Thursday evening. The operation, led by Lt. Jaime Bruno and Sergeant David Robillard and aided by the Hampden County Sheriff’s Department, was the result of a two-week investigation targeted at combating drug-dealing activities in the vicinity of St. James Blvd. and St. James Avenue. According to the Springfield Police Department's official announcement, the crackdown was in response to community concerns about illicit drug trade in the area.
Detectives observed a suspected drug deal on the 100 block of St. James Circle. They initiated a traffic stop which resulted in the vehicle pulling over in a parking lot on the 1000 block of St. James Avenue. Here, detectives apprehended Nathaniel Soto, a passenger in the car, after finding cocaine in his possession. Soto, already having two outstanding arrest warrants, was arrested and charged with multiple offenses including possession of a Class B drug — subsequent offense.
As the operation continued, detectives surveilled a residence on St. James Circle and arrested Wilfredo Santa in the driveway. A subsequent search of Santa’s residence in the basement led to the recovery of not only a significant amount of heroin, approximately 46.82 grams but also cocaine, crack-cocaine, an illegal firearm, and more than $2900 in cash. The confiscated heroin alone amounted to trafficking weight, indicating a substantial operation.
Wilfredo Santa, a 51-year-old resident of Springfield, is facing a series of charges for his involvement. They include distribution of a Class B drug, trafficking heroin/fentanyl, possession with the intent to distribute, and firearm-related offenses among others. Santa, also had an arrest warrant for various motor vehicle and theft offenses. The full list of charges can be found on the Springfield Police Department's website.
