PHILADELPHIA — A major cocaine and crack cocaine trafficking organization operating in North Philadelphia has been dismantled following a sweeping multi-agency investigation and arrests announced this week by Attorney General Dave Sunday.
Among the 21 people charged are Jimmie Torres, the alleged leader of the drug enterprise, and his son Matthew Torres, who ran the day-to-day operations while his father resided in Puerto Rico.
Working in collaboration with law enforcement from Philadelphia, Bucks, and Montgomery counties, the Office of Attorney General executed numerous search warrants on cellphones, homes, and vehicles. Sixteen individuals were arrested Thursday at locations across the Philadelphia region.
Investigators recovered:
12 kilograms of cocaine
50 pounds of marijuana
19 firearms, some illegally possessed due to prior felony convictions
$275,000 in suspected drug proceeds
“All of these firearms are believed to be directly tied to this organization’s criminal activity,” said AG Sunday. “This drug ring operated like an assembly line, running 24/7, with each member playing a designated role.”
The alleged trafficking ring’s collapse comes after a long-term, intelligence-driven operation by local, state, and federal law enforcement partners.
Statements from Officials:
Bucks County District Attorney Jennifer Schorn praised the collaborative effort:
“This week’s actions dismantled a high-level cocaine trafficking organization that has plagued North Philadelphia and the surrounding region.”
Montgomery County DA Kevin Steele added:
“Through joint operations like this, we send a strong message — drug traffickers will not be allowed to poison our communities for profit.”
Philadelphia Deputy Police Commissioner James Kelly called the case “a model for law enforcement collaboration.”
Philadelphia Sheriff Rochelle Bilal said:
“The takedown of the 5th and Cornwall Drug Trafficking Organization proves that when agencies unite, we get the job done. Our residents deserve safe neighborhoods.”
Those Charged Include:
Jimmie Torres (alleged ringleader)
Matthew Torres (his son)
Johnny Bartolomey
Tomas Montanez
Nestor Diaz
Hector Diaz
Rolando Ortiz
Angel Pizarro
Steven Andino
Ruth Andino
Jose Ramos
Iris Inostroza-Torres
Kevin Cade
Miguel Ramirez
Hector Tanon
Raphael Castro
Joshua DeJesus
Still at large:
Miguel Nazario
Myron Booker
Javier Rodriguez
John Cade
All 16 defendants arrested on Thursday have been arraigned, with bail set between $1 million and $5 million.
