Suspected Meriden Drug Dealer Arrested On Narcotics, Weapons Charges: Police

MERIDEN, CT — A 39-year-old Meriden man was arrested on narcotics and weapons charges early Thursday following an ongoing investigation into drug dealing in the city, according to Meriden police.

Members of the department's Crime Suppression Unit and SWAT Team executed a search warrant at 6 a.m. at 33 Prospect St.

Located inside of the home was the following:

1. A Smith & Wesson .357 caliber handgun and numerous rounds of ammunition

2. 388 grams of cocaine

3. Over 2 pounds of marijuana

4. Over $3,000.00 in cash

As a result, Samuel Virella was arrested and charged with the following:

1. Criminal Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition by a Convicted Felon

2. Possession of Narcotics

3. Possession of Narcotics Greater Than 1 Ounce

4. Possession of Controlled Substance Greater Than 1⁄2 Ounce

5. Possession of Controlled Substance with Intent to Sell

6. Possession Drug Paraphernalia

Virella was held in lieu of a $500,000 bond on those charges, but he was also wanted on an outstanding warrant for Sale of Controlled Substance, for which a court set and additional $35,000 bond. He is scheduled to appear in court later this month.

Photos: Samuel Virella and the items seized by police. Photo credit: Meriden Police Department