Wallingford Police Arrest Three in Drug Raid at Club

WALLINGFORD, CT — A lengthy investigation into drug sales taking place at the St. Pierre Social Club has resulted in the arrest of the bartender and two club members, according to Wallingford Police.

Police launched the investigation after receiving a tip that drug sales were taking place at the club, which is also known as the “French Club” and is located on Maple Avenue in a residential neighborhood on a dead-end street.

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After a lengthy investigation conducted by members of the Wallingford Police Department’s Narcotic Unit, a search warrant was served on the bartender, Kathryn Vanlinter, and the club on Thursday, June 9, according to Lt. Michael Colavolpe.

Colavolpe said Vanlinter was tending the bar at the time of the warrant service, and was the sole person in charge of the establishment.

Vanlinter, 47, of 809 Durham Road in Wallingford, was charged with possession of narcotics with intent to sell, possession of narcotics, and criminal attempt at sales of narcotics. She was released on a $10,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in Meriden Superior Court on June 23.

At the time of her arrest, Vanlinter was found to be in possession of approximately one dozen bags of cocaine packaged for sale and more than $1,200 cash, according to Colavolpe.

Colavolpe said her vehicle was also seized in conjunction with her arrest.

Edmund Wambolt, 49, of 971 ½ North Farms Road, Wallingford, was charged with two counts of possession of narcotics. Wambolt was released on a promise to appear and is scheduled to appear in Meriden Superior Court on June 23.

At the time of his arrest, Wambolt was in possession of crack cocaine and heroin, Colavolpe said.

Debra Mercurio, 52, of 25 Meadow Street, Wallingford, was charged with possession of narcotics and criminal attempt to possess narcotics. She was released on a promise to appear and is scheduled to appear in Meriden Superior Court on June 23.

At the time of her arrest, Mercurio was found to be in possession of several bags of cocaine, according to Colavolpe.

“The Wallingford Police Department continues to take a proactive approach in combating the illegal sales of narcotics in town,” Colavolpe said in a press release. “The public is asked to call the Narcotics Tip Line, 203-269-6272 with any information that may assist in investigating these complaints.”

Pictured, from left to right, are: Kathryn Vanlinter, Edmund Wambolt and Debra Mercurio / Wallingford Police Department