PHILADELPHIA, PA — After a yearlong investigation, authorities have dismantled a major cocaine trafficking operation centered around 5th and Cornwall in Philadelphia.
On Friday, the city announced charges against 21 individuals linked to the drug network. So far, 16 suspects are in custody, while police continue to search for the ringleader, Jimme Torres, along with four others identified as Miguel Nazario, Myron Booker, Javier Rodriguez, and John Cade.
“This criminal enterprise supplied the Philadelphia region with cocaine, crack cocaine, and marijuana,” said Attorney General Dave Sunday.
All arrests were made on Thursday, accompanied by the seizure of 19 firearms, 12 kilograms of cocaine, 50 pounds of marijuana, and $275,000 in cash.
Philadelphia Police Deputy Commissioner James Kelly noted that the group primarily operated out of 5th and Cornwall — a location known for drug activity for decades.
Johnny Bartolomey, arrested at his home, was reportedly responsible for stashing drugs prior to distribution across the city.
The investigation and arrests involved a multi-agency task force including the Bucks County and Montgomery County District Attorney’s Offices, Philadelphia Police, U.S. DEA, FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, Pennsylvania State Police, and local police departments across Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
Philadelphia Sheriff Rochelle Bilal praised the collaborative effort, saying, “The takedown of the 5th and Cornwall Drug Trafficking Organization proves that when we work together, we get the job done.”
The cases will be prosecuted by Deputy Attorney General Catherine Pirolli.
