18 People Arrested in Major Drug Bust in Reading

Law enforcement officials in Reading recently arrested 18 people in connection with a drug trafficking organization.

The bust, called Operation K-O’d, was the result of an investigation that began in May, 2018 when a concerned citizen informed police of suspected drug activity at two locations in the city. Upon investigating, police discovered the distribution network was even larger than anticipated, spanning other areas and townships around Reading and Berks County.

Officials used physical and electronic surveillance to identify participants and monitor their locations and traveling. Ultimately, the bust yielded seizures of more than 200 pounds of synthetic cannabinoids, prescription opioid pills, cocaine, drug paraphernalia, an assault rifle, a pistol and $180,000 in cash. The opioids had reportedly been brought to the area from Puerto Rico and Colombia. The cannabinoids (known as K2) were laced with weed killer and acetone.

Police step up enforcement efforts

Drug enforcement activities throughout Pennsylvania have been kicking into high gear as the state takes action to combat the widespread opioid crisis. It is important to remember, however, that if you are arrested on suspicion of a drug crime, you still have rights that police must inform you of and respect. You are innocent until proven guilty.

To start, you should never speak to police until you have consulted a criminal defense attorney. Anything you say could be used against you in a criminal case, and a lawyer will be able to advise you as law enforcement officers question you.

For the legal guidance you need when you’ve been placed under arrest, work with experienced Reading drug crime defense attorney David R. Eshelman.