Three Arrested Following North-End Drug Deal

New Bedford, MA – Narcotics detectives have taken three people into custody following a street-level narcotics investigation.

On the evening of June 3rd, detectives assigned to the Organized Crime Intelligence Bureau were conducting surveillance in the north-end sector of the City.  At around 5:30 p.m., Sgt. Jonathan Lagoa observed a drug transaction taking place in the area of the N. Front Street/Phillips Avenue intersection between two female customers and a male dealer.  Both females were stopped and found to be in possession of three plastic baggies of “crack cocaine.”  The dealer was stopped in his vehicle on Coffin Avenue near Riverside Park and was identified as Mr. ELIEZER RIVERA, 29, of 1107 County Street.

Detectives searched RIVERA and his vehicle and found him to be in possession of approximately 16 grams of “crack” cocaine, a digital scale, and baggies.  In addition, he was found to have a Bulldog .44 caliber revolver loaded with five rounds of ammunition.  RIVERA is not licensed to carry firearms.  He was taken into custody, as were the two females who were identified as GAIL FARLAND, 60, and CHERYL ANN BUTLER, 55.

FARLAND and BUTLER were both charged with possession of “crack” cocaine and conspiracy to violate the controlled substance laws.  RIVERA was charged with distribution of “crack” cocaine, possession with intent to distribute, and illegal carrying of a loaded firearm without a license, among other serious charges.

Det. EMILY PACHECO was the arresting officer.

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