Cocaine, Fentanyl Seized In Beverly Drug Bust: Police

BEVERLY, MA — A combined 100 grams of fentanyl and crack cocaine were seized during a drug bust in the Fayette Street area of the city on Thursday, leading to the arrest of two people from Lawrence, according to Beverly police.

Police said Juan Manuel Soto Guzman, 29, was charged with trafficking fentanyl, trafficking cocaine, two outstanding warrants and motor vehicle violations, while Brenda Margarita Lopez, 38, was also arrested on an outstanding warrant.

Police said detectives were investigating drug activity in the Fayette Street area when they saw a dark-colored Acura in the area and then the driver of that car walking to what police called "a known drug location."

"Based on the detective's observations of the operator and the vehicle, a traffic stop was conducted, at which point the operator presented an identification that appeared fake in nature," police said.

Police said a search warrant was obtained and the ensuing search led to the discovery of a "hidden compartment" inside the car that they said contained "several bags of cocaine and fentanyl as well as a large amount of cash."

Detectives recorded finding about 60 grams of fentanyl, 40 grams of crack cocaine and about $1,000 in cash.

Beverly Officer Tim Leblanc and State Trooper Christina Cavagnaro and her K-9 Thor assisted in the search of the car and seizure of the drugs.

Soto Guzman, the driver, and Lopez, the car's registered owner, were expected to appear at Salem District Court on Friday.