Five Arrested in Major Lewiston Drug Bust

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A Troubling Pattern of Drug Activity

LEWISTON—In a continuing saga of criminal activity, five people were arrested Thursday morning as police executed yet another raid on a College Street home in Lewiston. This marks the fourth raid on the property in the past nine months, underscoring a persistent problem in the area.

The raid, which took place at a home located at the corner of College and Horton streets, involved local police, agents from the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency, and a K-9 unit from the Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Office. The operation resulted in significant drug seizures and multiple charges against those involved.

Significant Drug Seizures and Charges

Among those arrested was Lilith Price, 20, who was charged with unlawful possession of multiple drugs, including oxycodone, methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl. The most severe charges were leveled against Christina Allen, 40, and Lucas Messer, 39, both of Auburn. Allen and Messer were charged with aggravated drug trafficking after investigators seized 222 grams of methamphetamine, 15 grams of crack cocaine, 22 grams of fentanyl, and six oxycodone pills from the residence.

This was not Messer’s first encounter with law enforcement at this location. Less than a month ago, he was arrested on similar drug trafficking charges and later released on bail, only to be rearrested during Thursday’s raid.

Repeat Offenders and Ongoing Concerns

The raid also led to the arrest of Stephanie Hallmon, 45, for violating conditions of release, and Gregory Simmons, 41, for refusing to submit to arrest. Both individuals have had previous run-ins with the law, further complicating the situation at the troubled property.

This latest raid brings the total number of arrests at the College Street home to 23 since late 2023, painting a grim picture of the ongoing drug-related issues in the neighborhood. In December, eight people were arrested at the same location, raising questions about the effectiveness of efforts to curb illegal activities in the area.

Community Impact and Law Enforcement Challenges

The repeated raids and arrests have sparked concern among local residents, who are increasingly alarmed by the persistent drug activity in their community. Law enforcement officials are grappling with the challenge of addressing the root causes of the problem, while also managing the ongoing criminal activities associated with the property.

As the investigation continues, authorities are urging the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. The Lewiston Police Department and the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency have emphasized their commitment to cracking down on drug trafficking and related crimes in the area.

Attribution source: Sunjournal.com