By Chris O'Neil
Trash Media Group | June 23, 2025
WATERTOWN — Federal prosecutors say they've dismantled a sprawling drug trafficking ring operating throughout Northern New York, charging thirteen people in a coordinated takedown that spanned multiple counties and involved months of undercover surveillance, wiretaps, and raids.
Announced Monday by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York, the indictment accuses the group of trafficking large quantities of cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl — the kind of deadly mix fueling the region’s overdose crisis.
Authorities say the ring was moving product up and down the North Country, pumping drugs into small towns and cities already overwhelmed by addiction and strained emergency services.
“This wasn’t just a few people selling out of their apartments,” said a federal law enforcement source familiar with the operation. “This was an organized distribution network, and it was poisoning communities.”
The bust comes after a multi-agency investigation involving the DEA, Homeland Security Investigations, New York State Police, and a patchwork of local departments. Officials say the takedown resulted in multiple arrests, large drug seizures, and the recovery of firearms and suspected drug money.
The names of those charged haven’t been publicly released yet, but prosecutors say they include both alleged ringleaders and street-level dealers. More arrests may be on the horizon.
A Blow to Local Supply Chains
While details remain under seal, prosecutors say the group funneled bulk narcotics into Jefferson, St. Lawrence, Franklin, and Oswego counties — all regions that have seen a spike in fentanyl-related deaths in recent years. Some of the trafficking routes allegedly tied back to New York City and other urban hubs.
“These are not victimless crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Carla B. Freedman. “Every bag of fentanyl, every ounce of heroin – it all lands somewhere, and too often it ends with someone dead.”
In past cases like this, authorities have seized kilos of narcotics, cash stacked in shoeboxes, and weapons hidden in homes and vehicles. Monday’s announcement strongly hints at similar findings here.
What Comes Next
All thirteen defendants are facing federal charges that carry stiff penalties — including up to life in prison. Some may also face weapons charges or enhancements for prior criminal history.
Federal court dates are expected in Syracuse over the coming weeks, with bail hearings likely to draw packed courtrooms and local media attention.
In the meantime, law enforcement says it’s not letting up. “Dismantling the network is only part of it,” said one official. “We’ll be watching who tries to step in and take their place.”
This takedown represents a significant victory in the ongoing battle against drug trafficking in Northern New York. Trash Media Group extends sincere congratulations and gratitude to the federal, state, and local officers whose dedication, coordination, and perseverance made this operation possible. Their hard work helps protect communities and save lives from the devastating impact of narcotics.
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