16 Charged In Drug Trafficking, Commercial Burglary Ring
BALTIMORE (WJZ) --A federal grand jury has returned three indictments, charging 16 defendants - eight in a conspiracy to distribute prescription drugs, heroin and cocaine around the Baltimore metropolitan area and the remaining defendants in conspiracies to commit armed home invasions, residential burglaries and commercial burglaries.
The indictments were returned Tuesday and unsealed Thursday upon the arrests of the defendants and execution of search warrants at 21 locations in Baltimore, Baltimore County and Anne Arundel County.
"This is another example of the extraordinary work being done by our federal, state, and local partners to reduce crime in Baltimore," said Police Commissioner Anthony Batts. "We are sending a message - if you bring drugs, weapons or violence to Baltimore, every tool available will be used to bring you to justice."
The indictment seeks the forfeiture of at least $2 million, four properties and seven vehicles alleged to be used in or proceeds of the drug distribution. These defendants face a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a $1 million fine.
Rochelle Ritchie will bring you more on this story at 4, 5 & 6 p.m.
