The Cranston Police Department has conducted several enforcement actions leading to significant drug seizures and multiple arrests over the last week. These operations underscore the department’s ongoing commitment to combat drug-related crimes and ensure public safety.

Major drug seizure following traffic stop 

On March 27, at about 9:58 AM, a patrol officer working a traffic enforcement detail conducted a traffic stop for a seatbelt violation at Park Avenue and Reservoir Avenue. Probable cause was established to search the vehicle, and with assistance from the Cranston Police K-9 Unit, officers located a substantial amount of illegal narcotics.

Seized from a hidden electronic compartment in the vehicle were 11 kilograms of cocaine, 2.2 grams of fentanyl powder, 11 pressed fentanyl pills, 10 ounces of marijuana and $1,700 in cash seized for asset forfeiture.

This seizure is valued at about $385,000.

Officers arrested Teddy Lopez, 21, of 400 Farmington Ave., Cranston, charging him with Possession of Cocaine (Over 1 KG) with Intent to Deliver, (2) Counts of Possession of Schedule II Narcotics Under 10 Grams and Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Deliver.

Search warrant executed at homeless encampment

On March 19, after an extensive investigation by the Cranston Police Department Special Investigations Unit regarding illegal narcotics distribution in the city, a search warrant was executed on a tent at a homeless encampment off Plainfield Pike near Route 295.

As a result of the search, detectives discovered crack cocaine, crystal methamphetamine, drug packaging materials, two BB guns, a knife, $443 in cash and 30 stolen shopping carts from Walmart. Detectives arrested Donald Iasimone, 40, of no permanent address.

He was charged with (2) Counts of Possession of Schedule II Narcotics with Intent to Deliver (Crack Cocaine & Crystal Methamphetamine), (2) Counts of Carrying a Weapon When Committing a Crime of Violence and (1) Count of Receiving Stolen Goods. 

Search warrant executed at 30 Cutting Ave.

On March 27, the Cranston Police Special Investigations Unit, in collaboration with the Drug Enforcement Administration Task Force, executed a court-authorized search warrant at 30 Cutting Ave., 1st floor.

Detectives and agents seized 2,500 pressed fentanyl pills, 16 grams of fentanyl powder, 16.6 grams of pressed methamphetamine pills, 16.6 grams of psilocybin mushrooms and an unidentified powder and various drug paraphernalia.

The search resulted in the arrest of Jerry Taylor, 27, of 30 Cutting Ave., 1st floor, who was charged with (2) Counts of Possession with Intent to Deliver Schedule II Narcotics (Fentanyl) and (2) Counts of Possession of Schedule I-V Narcotics Over 10 Grams.

Cranston police commitment to public safety

“These enforcement actions send a strong message that illegal drug activity will not be tolerated in Cranston,” said Chief of Police Colonel Michael J. Winquist. “Our officers remain committed to proactive policing and protecting our residents.”

The Cranston Police Department encourages residents to report any suspicious activity related to drug distribution by contacting the department. Anonymous tips can be submitted by texting keyword CRANSTONPD with your tip to 847411.