HARRISBURG, PA — Attorney General Dave Sunday has announced charges against Korrtezz Martin, 34, of Beaver County, and 13 other individuals alleged to be involved in a major drug trafficking network across parts of western Pennsylvania. Prosecutors claim the group was responsible for the distribution of fentanyl, cocaine, and crack cocaine in Beaver, Allegheny, and Washington counties from April 2023 to August 2024.
On Tuesday, Martin was taken into custody alongside ten of his alleged co-conspirators. He faces multiple charges, including possession with intent to distribute, criminal conspiracy, corrupt organizations, dealing in the proceeds of unlawful activity, illegal possession of firearms, and criminal use of a communication facility. Bail for Martin has been set at $500,000.
The charges stem from an investigation conducted in part by the 51st Statewide Investigating Grand Jury, which identified Martin as the alleged leader of the drug operation. According to the Grand Jury, Martin orchestrated a distribution scheme relying on a network of “runners” to transport and sell drugs.
“Our Bureau of Narcotics Investigation worked diligently to identify the leader of this criminal enterprise and his conspirators, which resulted in charges that put a stop to this network of fentanyl dealers,” said Attorney General Sunday. “Drug traffickers push poisons into our communities without a care for the lives put at risk. My office will continue to vigorously prosecute traffickers who value dollars over human lives.”
Details of the Arrests
The investigation involved cooperation from the Pennsylvania State Police, the Drug Enforcement Agency’s High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas program, the Beaver County District Attorney’s Office, and the Beaver County Drug Task Force. The arrests resulted in charges for 14 individuals allegedly tied to the network.
Specific allegations against the other defendants include possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute, criminal conspiracy, corrupt organizations, dealing in the proceeds of unlawful activity, criminal mischief, and disorderly conduct. Bail amounts for the defendants vary, ranging from $50,000 to $500,000, depending on their level of alleged involvement.
It is important to note that all charges against Martin and the other defendants remain allegations at this stage, and all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Broader Implications
This case highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat drug trafficking at regional and state levels. Attorney General Sunday pointed to fentanyl, in particular, as a significant public safety risk, due to its potency and role in rising overdose deaths. He emphasized the need to disrupt organized supply chains that bring the synthetic opioid into local communities.
Senior Deputy Attorney General Kara Cotter of the Drug Strike Force Section is leading the prosecution. Officials hope these arrests deter future operations and underscore the state’s commitment to addressing drug-related crises impacting Pennsylvania residents.
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