This afternoon, Special Emphasis Unit (SEU) detectives observed a group of approximately 7 males consuming alcohol and narcotics at a park. They were doing so just feet from a group of children that were playing on the playground. A plainclothes SEU detective moved in and asked the adults with the children to remove the children fro the park at which point uniformed officers and SEU detectives moved in and detained the involved parties.
One of the subjects was observed dealing narcotics by a detective prior to contact with him. This individual is a 27-year-old male who has prior convictions for Murder 2nd Degree (Attempted) and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm 2nd Degree. He also had an active Department of Corrections (DOC) warrant for escape. He was under the impression that he was in a “catch and release” city and didn’t appreciate being informed that such was not the case here.
In all, detectives recovered 18 bags packaged for distribution that contained what appeared to be a mix of crystal meth and Fentanyl.
Our parks are for the public, families and children to enjoy. They are not safe havens for drug and alcohol use or other criminal activity. Our SEU detectives and patrol officers will continue to diligently patrol and monitor our parks and public spaces to ensure that they are safe and usable for everyone to enjoy.