Crime & Safety

3 Facing Drug Charges After Boston Police Recover Crack Cocaine

Officers were conducting an on-site investigation when they observed a large group of people reportedly using illegal drugs.

BOSTON, MA — Three people are facing multiple drug charges following an investigation into suspected drug activity Wednesday morning, according to the Boston Police Department.

Michael Williams, 52, of Boston, Heather Mannetta, 47, of Quincy, and Krystina Derusha, 37, of Randolph, were arrested on Wednesday, Oct. 28, after officers observed multiple suspected drug transactions near 23 Bradston St.

Officers were conducting an on-site investigation just before 7 a.m. when they observed a large group of people reportedly using illegal drugs in the area. Police reportedly observed Williams approach a gray electrical box before Mannetta approached him, and the two engaged in what appeared to be a drug transaction.

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While continuing surveillance, officers observed Mannetta handling a small blue item before placing it underneath her pants. Several minutes later, Derusha approached Williams and the two engaged in another drug transaction.

At 7:11 a.m., officers observed Mannetta conduct an additional suspected drug transaction with another individual before moving in to stop those involved.

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During the encounter, Derusha handed officers a paper fold containing suspected fentanyl. Police also learned that she had two active warrants and recovered a plastic bag containing blue-colored crack cocaine during a subsequent search.

Officers also stopped Mannetta, who was reportedly holding a glass pipe and a plastic bag containing pink-colored crack cocaine. A search of her clothing uncovered additional loose pieces of crack cocaine in her jacket pocket and two bags containing orange- and blue-colored crack cocaine in her jeans pocket.

Additional officers stopped Williams and recovered a large amount of cash from several locations on his person, along with loose pieces of pink-colored crack cocaine, according to police.

Williams has been charged with conspiracy to violate drug laws, distribution of Class B drugs, and possession with intent to distribute Class B drugs.

Mannetta is facing charges of conspiracy to violate drug laws, distribution of Class A drugs, two counts of distribution of Class B drugs, and possession with intent to distribute Class B drugs.

Derusha is facing charges of possession of Class A drugs and possession of Class B drugs. All three are expected to be arraigned in Roxbury District Court.

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