Two Men Arrested Following North-End Drug Deal
New Bedford, MA — On Thursday, January 23rd, detectives made two arrests following a suspected drug transaction in the area of 1261 Church Street.
At around 8 PM, detectives observed a male identified as ANDY COAKLEY, 37, a known drug dealer, arriving in the vicinity and meeting with KENNETH MEDEIROS, 45. Detectives believed that a narcotics transaction was taking place, and as a result, both men were stopped.
COAKLEY was found with three plastic bags containing 104.2 grams of cocaine, a plastic bag of fentanyl weighing 57 grams, a plastic bag containing 11.5 grams of fentanyl on his person, and $5,758 in US currency that was seized as a result of drug proceeds.
MEDEIROS was found with a plastic bag containing 6.8 grams of Adderall and two bags containing 4.9 grams of suspected cocaine. He was charged with possession.
COAKLEY was arrested and charged with distribution of cocaine, trafficking in excess of 100 grams or more of cocaine, trafficking in excess of 36 grams or more of fentanyl, conspiracy to violate the drug law, and resisting arrest. COAKLEY has 31 adult arraignments with two convictions for dealing cocaine and marijuana. Twenty-six of his other arraignments have been dismissed.
“It’s unfortunate that our detectives invest significant time and resources to stop criminal activity, only to have offenders wind right back up onto the streets of New Bedford,” said Chief Paul Oliveira. “I want to acknowledge the relentless dedication and hard work of our detectives. Their commitment to keeping our community safe, despite these setbacks, is truly commendable.”
The arresting officer was Det. Nathaniel Almeida.
If you have any information you would like to give the police, you can do so anonymously by calling 508-99-CRIME or visiting our website and submitting a tip.