Brockton, State Police arrest 22, charge 37 in 2024 Brockton Opiate Suppression Initiative

BROCKTON — Massachusetts State Police and Brockton Police arrested 22 and charged 37 people on Wednesday as part of an ongoing investigation into street-level opiate sales within the city of Brockton, Plymouth County District Attorney Timothy J. Cruz said in a written statement . From May to July of this year, state and city law enforcement agencies from numerous divisions conducted a joint investigation as part of the 2024 Brockton Opiate Suppression Initiative to address issues related to opiate and narcotic distribution activities, violence, quality of life offenses and related crimes in Brockton.

As part of the investigation, prosecutors said narcotics were purchased by undercover agents from several distributors.

On Aug. 7 at about 5 a.m., more than 60 law enforcement officers set out to execute 20 arrest warrants across Brockton.

By the end of the day, the DA's office said officers arrested 22 and charged 37 individuals, including13 people with outstanding arrest warrants who were not associated with the operation.

"The City of Brockton extends its gratitude to the Massachusetts State Police and the Plymouth County Sheriff for their partnership with the Brockton Police Department in conducting a citywide sweep targeting alleged drug dealers and other violent offenders," Mayor Robert Sullivan said in a statement. "Ensuring the safety of our residents, visitors and business owners is crucial to Brockton's vitality and progress. We remain steadfast in our commitment to addressing any threats to our community's safety."

“By targeting and apprehending drug dealers and addressing quality-of-life issues head-on, we reaffirm our resolve to enhance community safety," Brockton Police Chief Brenda Perez said. "This collaborative effort is critical in demonstrating that we will continue to work tirelessly to protect our neighborhoods."

“Today’s operation illustrates our shared commitment to public safety," Massachusetts State Police Col. John Mawn said. "I commend the troopers and officers willing to risk their lives to meaningfully address those who exploit and profit from marginalized individuals living with substance use disorders. As part of this dangerous mission, we also focus on the companion gun violence perpetrated by those involved in illegal narcotics activity. The law enforcement action today will improve the quality of life for those living, working, and visiting Brockton, and the surrounding communities."

"We remain dedicated to sending a message to those trafficking poison — drug dealing is not welcome here in Brockton. Law enforcement will continue to make their presence known to ensure this city remains safe for all residents," Cruz said.

According to preliminary data from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, there were 85 confirmed opioid-related deaths between January and March of this year in Massachusetts. However, the Department of Public Health said they estimate there were an additional 382 to 463 unconfirmed deaths, totaling approximately 507 confirmed and estimated opioid-related deaths in just three months.

This article originally appeared on The Enterprise: Brockton, State Police arrest 22, charge 37 in 2024 Brockton Opiate Suppression Initiative