October 30, 2009

 

ELMIRA --- Police shut down a major drug trafficking center in Elmira and put five people behind bars.
     Police say it's a giant step in an effort to crack down on cocaine distribution in the City of Elmira.
     Officials say it's been a several-month-long investigation, and Friday morning the Elmira Police Swat Team, the State Police Narcotics Unit and Special Investigations Unit, raided two Elmira homes.
     The Elmira Police Department got complaints about these two houses all the time and with five people behind bars, they're hoping things will quiet down.
     “It came down to a quality of life issue for the people in the City of Elmira,” said Officer Joshua VanSkiver, with the Elmira Police Department. “We've received several complaints from neighbors, whether it be fights, disturbances, loud music, or parties.”
     Early Friday morning police raided 305 West Clinton Street and 515 College Avenue.
     They arrested five people and seized 98 bags of crack cocaine, prescription narcotics, $1,500 in cash, packaging materials and scales and a car.      
     “The residents at 515 College Avenue were supplying residents at 305 West Clinton," Explained VanSkiver. "The residents in 305 West Clinton were several drug dealers from all over New York State.” 
     Among those arrested are 42-year-old Daren Brooks and 18-year-old Tara Abraham who both live at 515 College Avenue, 36-year-old Lewis Thomas, and 34-year-old Nicole Arbitrage who live at 305 West Clinton, and 22-year-old Donald Taylor of Elmira.   
     Even with a group of alleged dealers off the streets, Officer VanSkiver says this investigation is far from over. 
     “It’s a big problem right now, we are trying to do our best and work well with other agencies trying to cut the problem in half,” he said.
     Officer VanSkiver says the import and distribution of crack cocaine is a growing problem in Elmira, but Friday morning, Elmira’s drug trafficking operation was dealt a huge blow.
     “As of right now, everyone should feel pretty safe in that area,” VanSkiver said.
     Police say more arrests are pending, but they're still asking for your help.
     If you see anything suspicious, call the Elmira anonymous tip line at 271-HALT.