Police Nab Two Danbury Women On Multiple Drug Charges

DANBURY, CT — Police arrested two women on a variety of drug-related charges following a weeks-long investigation.

The Danbury Police Department began an investigation into the activities of Erin Melissa Rusek, 33, and Barbara Fleckenstein, 56, following citizen complaints alleging their involvement in illegal drug sales.

Police established a surveillance of the suspects' shared Lake Breeze Drive residence in Danbury at approximately 3 p.m. on Wednesday. Rusek, who was nine months pregnant, and Fleckenstein were apprehended by police when they attempted to drive away. Following a search of the suspects, their car, and residence, "a substantial quantity of crack cocaine, powder cocaine, heroin and money was found and seized," according to Det. Lt. Mark Williams.

In addition to the drugs and money, Rusek and Fleckenstein were found to be in possession of a scale and packaging material, which supported the complaints that they were selling illegal drugs, according to Williams.

Rusek and Fleckenstein were taken to Danbury Police Headquarters, and each charged with three counts of possession of a controlled substance, three counts of possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Both women were later released pending arraignment.