Stoneham Police Arrest Alleged Heroin Dealer

From Stoneham Police Department:

Police Chief James McIntyre reports that the Stoneham Police Department, working with a regional task force, arrested a major alleged drug dealer after a lengthy investigation.

Pedro Diaz-Vazquez, 29, of Lawrence, was arrested on Friday evening in Stoneham by Stoneham Police and officers attached the the Southern Middlesex Regional Drug Task Force.

The Stoneham Police Department Drug Unit had been conducting surveillance on Duncklee Avenue for several months after receiving numerous complaints of drug activity in the area. Detectives were able to identify a group out of Lawrence, which was believed to be responsible for the drug activity in this area as well as surrounding communities.

Last night, detectives conducting surveillance on Duncklee Avenue observed Diaz-Vazquez, and after an investigation, it was determined that he had a large quantity of heroin and cocaine in his possession.

As a result, he was arrested and charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute class A and B Substances. Police found 27 bags of heroin, 10 bags of crack cocaine, and 6 bags of powdered cocaine in his possession.

As Diaz-Vazquez was being led away by detectives, several residents of Duncklee Avenue, disgusted with the drug activity in their neighborhood, emerged from their homes, lined the street, and applauded the arrest.

Diaz-Vazquez was released on bail and will likely be arraigned on Tuesday in Woburn District Court. His 2004 Chrysler Pacific was seized as a drug vehicle.

“The Stoneham Police Department will not allow the drug trade to ruin lives and destroy neighborhoods in this community,” Chief McIntyre said. “I applaud the bravery of our residents for coming forward and taking a stand with police.”

The Stoneham Police Department encourages members of the community to report suspected drug activity to the police department. Anyone wishing to report drug activity and remain anonymous can use the Drug Tip Hotline – 781-438-1215, extension 3213.