Medford Man Arrested for Selling Drugs at Motel

Two men, including a Medford resident, were arrested Thursday after detectives conducting surveillance at the Motel 6 observed them make a drug transaction.

On Thursday, August 20, the Tewksbury Police Department arrested Joseph Mitrano, 26, of Medford, for possession with the intent to distribute a Class E substance.

Thomas Smith Sr., 53, of Falmouth, was also arrested for the distribution of a Class E substance. Smith also had warrants for breaking and entering, larceny over $250 and receiving stolen property.

Detectives were conducting surveillance at the Motel 6, when the drug transaction was observed. Both individuals were taken into custody, 104 gabapentin pills were recovered.

This prescription medication Neurontin-Gabapentin has a street name of “johnnies” and is a nerve pain/pain killer that is widely used as an opiate substitute in the substance abuse community, according to Tewksbury Police Chief Timothy Sheehan. The medication is sought after as it usually goes undetected when individuals are being screened for opiates. .

Both are expected to be arraigned at Lowell District Court on August 21.