Elio Gugliotti, Editor
NAUGATUCK — A joint narcotics investigation between local and federal authorities culminated last week with the seizure of nearly a pound and half of fentanyl and the arrest of two people.
Police say officers also seized $8,027 in cash and a .38 mm Smith and Wesson handgun Nov. 12 when they executed search warrants at apartments at 180 and 182 North Main St.
Police arrested Myrice Hodge, 33, of 182 North Main St. Apt. 5, and Debra Rodriguez, 28, of New York, who police say was staying at 180 North Main St.
Police charged Hodge and Rodriguez, both felons, with sale of narcotics, possession of narcotics, possession of drug paraphernalia and criminal possession of a firearm. They were each released on $50,000 bonds and are set to appear in Waterbury Superior Court on Dec. 30.
It was unclear if the handgun is registered. Deputy Police Chief C. Colin McAllister said the gun’s origins are under investigation and additional charges may be filed.
Police said the narcotics investigation was focused on drug activity in Waterbury and Naugatuck. Local officers worked together with officers from the Drug Enforcement Administration office out of New Haven on what McAllister described as a meticulous and long-term investigation.
Together with federal and local partners, McAllister said police are working to stem the tide of the opioid epidemic and “bring those to justice who spread these harmful narcotics within our community.”
