HARRISBURG, PA — Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday announced seven arrests and the seizure of multiple pounds of methamphetamine, fentanyl/heroin, and marijuana following a multi-agency investigation into what authorities describe as a violent drug trafficking network operating in Carbon County.
The investigation, led by the Office of Attorney General’s Bureau of Narcotics Investigations in collaboration with the Carbon County Drug Task Force and local law enforcement partners, culminated in charges against Cruz “June” Rodriguez — who investigators allege was the ringleader — along with six co-defendants: Elijah Marie Camacho, Justin Paul Heacock, Christopher Hazlett, Kayla Marie Evert, Jose Nieves-Feliciano, and William Carter.
According to the Office of Attorney General, the operation uncovered evidence that Rodriguez allegedly maintained control over co-conspirators through intimidation, threats, and the use of firearms. The arrests followed a coordinated effort by state and local authorities targeting what they characterized as a criminal organization distributing large quantities of narcotics throughout the region.
“Taking drug dealers off the streets continues to be a top priority of my office,” Attorney General Sunday said in a statement. “Firearms and drug trafficking are a deadly mix that have fueled violence across the Commonwealth. I am grateful to our law enforcement partners who made arrests and seizures that will have a lasting impact in these communities.”
Carbon County District Attorney Michael Greek praised the collaboration between agencies, noting that the investigation demonstrated the value of interagency cooperation. “These drug arrests highlight the successful collaboration between the local police of Carbon and Schuylkill counties and the Attorney General’s Drug Task Force,” Greek said. “I could not be more proud of their teamwork, dedication, and commitment to keeping Carbon County safe.”
Rodriguez faces a series of felony charges, including two counts of corrupt organizations, multiple counts of delivery and possession with intent to deliver controlled substances, conspiracy, dealing in unlawful proceeds, receiving stolen property, and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.
Co-defendants face similar charges ranging from delivery and conspiracy to dealing in unlawful proceeds and criminal use of a communication facility.
All seven defendants were taken into custody and await court proceedings.
Criminal charges, and any discussion thereof, are merely allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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