The Methuen Police Department has recently taken three men into custody on fentanyl trafficking allegations, along with the confiscation of an illegal firearm. The Street Crimes Unit acted on community complaints, leading to the arrest of Jacob Barreiro, 20, Joshua McKinnon, 44, and Thomas Winward, 35, all from Derry, N.H., according to details released by the department.
During an operation on Monday, detectives undertook surveillance and proceeded to thoroughly investigate narcotics distribution within the vicinity of Larchwood Road. This strategic move aimed to quickly address the concerns raised by residents of the area. In the event, detectives detained Barreiro, McKinnon, and Winward. Quantities of drugs, specifically fentanyl, amphetamine, and cocaine, were found, further solidifying the case against the trio. Barreiro was also found in possession of a firearm with a defaced serial number.
According to the Methuen Police Department, Barreiro faces multiple charges, including trafficking fentanyl and possession with intent to distribute both amphetamine and cocaine, along with firearms offenses. McKinnon and Winward were both charged with trafficking fentanyl and possession with intent to distribute amphetamine. McKinnon faced additional motor vehicle violations.
All three were arraigned the following Tuesday in Lawrence District Court. As part of the standard legal process, these charges remain allegations, and the accused are considered innocent until such a time as they might be proved guilty in a court of law. The Methuen Police underscore the significance of community involvement in their efforts to decisively tackle the growing issue of narcotics in the neighborhood.
