PHILADELPHIA, PA — Two men are facing federal drug charges in separate Lehigh Valley-area cases involving large quantities of narcotics, including heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine, according to federal prosecutors.
Richie Rivera, 33, of Reading, was charged by indictment with possession with intent to distribute heroin, fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine.
According to the indictment, Rivera was allegedly found in possession of approximately 1.24 kilograms of heroin, 435 grams of a mixture containing fentanyl, medetomidine, and xylazine, 711 grams of cocaine, and 206 grams of methamphetamine on or about February 24, 2026, in Berks County.
Prosecutors also allege Rivera had a prior conviction in October 2023 in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania for conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.
If convicted, Rivera faces a maximum possible sentence of life in prison.
The case was investigated by the Reading Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
In a separate case, Samuel Paulino, 51, of Union City, New Jersey, was charged by indictment with possession with intent to distribute heroin and cocaine.
According to the indictment, Paulino was allegedly found in possession of approximately four kilograms of heroin and six kilograms of cocaine on or about March 2, 2026, in Northampton County.
If convicted, Paulino also faces a maximum possible sentence of life in prison.
The case was investigated by the Pennsylvania State Police and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Federal officials said the cases are part of a broader initiative targeting drug trafficking and related crimes.
All suspects, arrestees, and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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