In a recent joint operation, the Springfield Police Department's Firearms Investigation Unit and the Hampden County Sheriff’s Department arrested three individuals and recovered illegal firearms and narcotics. The operation was led by Lieutenant Jaime Bruno and Sergeant Evan Donermeyer.
According to the Springfield Police Department, authorities had been monitoring a location on the 0–100 block of Canon Circle suspected of heroin distribution. After obtaining a search warrant for the apartment, detectives arrested Jose Mendez-Collazo and Mariester Rivera. During surveillance, Mendez-Collazo was seen leaving the area and later met with Arianna Alvarado-Torres, who was detained after exiting his vehicle. Heroin was found on Alvarado-Torres, and both heroin and cocaine were recovered from Mendez-Collazo. Rivera was stopped while driving away from the area shortly before the search was executed.
The search resulted in the seizure of over 20 grams of cocaine, 32 grams of heroin packaged in 1,643 bags, ammunition, and three loaded firearms, including a rifle with a 30-round magazine. Nearly $25,000 in cash was also confiscated.
Jose Mendez-Collazo, 41, faces multiple charges, including possession of a firearm without a license, trafficking heroin and cocaine, and illegal possession of ammunition. Arianna Alvarado-Torres, 38, is charged with possession of a Class A drug and has a default warrant for receiving a stolen motor vehicle. Mariester Rivera, 29, faces similar firearm and drug-related charges.
The case reflects continued collaboration between Springfield Police Department and the Hampden County Sheriff’s Department to address drug and firearm violations.
