PHILADELPHIA, PA — Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday, joined by local and regional law enforcement partners, announced charges against 21 individuals and the seizure of narcotics, firearms, and cash linked to what authorities describe as a large-scale cocaine and crack cocaine trafficking network operating in North Philadelphia.
Alleged Organization Leaders and Arrests
Among those charged are Jimme Torres, identified by investigators as the alleged leader of the operation, and his son, Matthew Torres, who is accused of managing the enterprise during his father’s stays in Puerto Rico.
Officials reported that 16 people were arrested Thursday at various locations across Philadelphia. All were arraigned, with bail amounts set between $1 million and $5 million. Arrest warrants remain active for four others.
Seizures and Evidence
During searches of residences, vehicles, and cellphones, investigators seized:
- 12 kilograms of cocaine
- 50 pounds of marijuana
- 19 firearms, some allegedly held illegally due to prior felony convictions
- Approximately $275,000 in cash, believed to be proceeds from criminal activity
Law enforcement officials allege the firearms and cash were directly connected to the group’s operations.
Law Enforcement Statements
Attorney General Sunday characterized the takedown as the result of a long-term, sophisticated investigation, describing the organization as operating like a “factory assembly line,” with designated roles and a constant flow of street-level distribution.
Bucks County District Attorney Jennifer Schorn, Montgomery County District Attorney Kevin Steele, and Philadelphia Deputy Commissioner James Kelly each emphasized the importance of multi-agency collaboration in dismantling complex criminal enterprises. Philadelphia Sheriff Rochelle Bilal added that the takedown demonstrates the impact of coordinated efforts to improve neighborhood safety.
Additional Defendants
In addition to Jimme and Matthew Torres, those charged include: Johnny Bartolomey, Tomas Montanez, Nestor Diaz, Hector Diaz, Rolando Ortiz, Angel Pizarro, Steven Andino, Ruth Andino, Jose Ramos, Iris Inostroza-Torres, Kevin Cade, Miguel Ramirez, Hector Tanon, Raphael Castro, and Joshua DeJesus.
Charged but not yet in custody are: Miguel Nazario, Myron Booker, Javier Rodriguez, and John Cade.
Legal Process
All charges announced are allegations only. Each defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
The investigation remains ongoing, with prosecutors indicating that additional evidence is being reviewed in connection with the case.
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