13 Arrested After Illegal Open-Air Drug Market Shut Down in Saratoga by Authorities
Saratoga Springs, NY: An illegal open-air drug market was shut down by the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office, resulting in the arrest of 13 individuals.
Authorities searched for 2244 U.S. Route 9 in the town of Malta as part of an investigation related to the sale and possession of controlled substances and marijuana in Saratoga County.
According to the police, vendors at the illegal open-air market had a significant amount of concentrated marijuana, hallucinogenic mushrooms, and over 43 pounds of flower marijuana. Additionally, authorities confiscated two handguns and approximately $10,000 in cash.
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Authorities described the open-air drug market as resembling a flea market with tables. Individuals are required to show their identification upon arrival and can browse through a selection of prohibited substances.
Police seized marijuana, concentrated marijuana, hallucinogens, edibles, and vapes. The investigation is still in progress, and additional charges may be forthcoming.
The individuals listed below face charges for two counts each of criminal possession of narcotics:
- Leslie Mason-Flowers, 32, of Troy
- Russell F. Gorgen, 31, of Glenville
- Damian C. Pitt, 22, of Mechanicville
- Joseph M. Lavoie, of Sutton, Mass.
- Zachary J. Wissenbach, 26, of Delanson,
- Gerarld R. Helm, 33, of Saratoga Springs
- Kevin J. Tidd, 37, of Glenville
- Saverio B. Mastrianna, 34, of Albany
- Thomas J. Boglino, 35, of Amsterdam
- Trave A. New, 33, of Albany
- Christiana M. Denardo, 37, of Westfeld, Mass.
- Jonathan M. Lachappelle, 36, of Malta
- Christopher M. Loya, of Troy.
Furthermore, Mason-Flowers and Denardo face charges for possessing a firearm illegally. Everyone was given appearance tickets and is scheduled to appear in Malta Town Court at a later date.
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