Bensalem Police Faced Gunfire In Taking Down Drug Trafficking Ring

BENSALEM TOWNSHIP, PA — It was a close call.

While executing a search warrant on Jan. 15, members of a large, multi-agency task force led by the Bucks County Detectives Drug Strike Force and the Bensalem Township Police Special Investigation Unit were met with gunfire from a Philadelphia man.

But their work brought down a $4 million drug trafficking ring that was operating in the region.

Bensalem Public Safety Director William McVey and Captain Robert Bugsch attended a press conference earlier this week where Bucks County District Attorney Joe Kahn announced the arrest of the man who fired shots at police in Philadelphia.

“This investigation highlights the real dangers that law enforcement officers face when dealing with illegal drugs and guns. The suspects in this case posed a significant threat to officers, but also the innocent civilians they came in contact with every day,” McVey said.

In total, the investigation removed eight firearms and $4 million worth of drugs from the streets, including 300 pounds of marijuana and 17,000 THC vapes. Other drugs included 80 pounds of THC concentrate, 600 bags of THC Edibles, 15 pounds of Psilocybin Mushrooms, 75 Psilocybin Mushroom Edibles, 300 Adderall pills, and 2 ounces of Cocaine, authorities said.

“Thankfully, none of our officers were struck by gunfire that morning," McVey said. "Their training and professionalism led to a successful apprehension. The results of this investigation are commendable, demonstrate the value of law enforcement collaboration, and will make our communities safer.”

(Bensalem Township Police Department)