News Release [printer friendly version]
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 18, 2007

Drug Trafficking Organization in Coatsville,
Pennsylvania Dismantled, 22 Arrested

MAY 18 -- (PHILADELPHIA) – James M. Kasson, Special Agent in Charge of the Philadelphia Division, Drug Enforcement Administration, announced today the arrest of 22 targets in an ongoing two year law enforcement investigation targeting members of a violent cocaine and crack trafficking organization. This organization is responsible for the acquisition and distribution of large quantities of cocaine and crack from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to Coatsville, Pennsylvania.

To date, law enforcement has arrested 22 suspects, seized over three kilograms of crack cocaine and 1.5 kilograms cocaine HCL, $400,000 in cash, and numerous vehicles and firearms. Two targets of this investigation remain at large and federal arrests warrants have been issued for Edwin Flamer and Gary Lewis both of Coatsville, Pennsylvania.

“The continued arrests of this organization’s members will bring their devastating impact against our communities to an end,” said SAC Kasson. Crack and cocaine has wreaked havoc against our communities throughout Chester County for too long. The combined law enforcement efforts demonstrated throughout this investigation has clearly dismantled this organization.

The following agencies assisted in this investigation FBI, ATF, Coatsville P.D., Parksburg P.D., Chester County Detectives Office, and the Chester County Drug Task Force.

Anyone with information regarding Edwin Flamer and Gary Lewis should contact the Philadelphia Division of the Drug Enforcement Administration at (215) 861-3474.