News Summary
The Cranston Police Department has made significant arrests related to drug trafficking and criminal activities during February and March 2025. Noteworthy arrests include Donald Iasimone and Teddy Lopez, both facing severe drug charges. Police confiscated large amounts of narcotics, including cocaine, fentanyl, and methamphetamine, as part of an ongoing initiative to combat drug-related crime in the community. The Chief of Police emphasizes the importance of community cooperation in maintaining public safety and addressing the escalating drug problem.
Cranston Police Make Multiple Arrests and Drug Seizures in February and March 2025
In a series of significant drug-related arrests, the Cranston Police Department has apprehended multiple individuals involved in criminal activity during February and March 2025. These efforts are part of a broader initiative aimed at combatting drug trafficking and associated crime in the community.
Among the notable arrests, on March 19, Donald Iasimone, 40, was taken into custody at a homeless encampment off Route 295. Iasimone is facing serious charges, including possession with intent to deliver narcotics and various weapons offenses. Police discovered a substantial amount of illicit substances, including crack cocaine and crystal methamphetamine, as well as packaging materials, two BB guns, a knife, $443 in cash, and an astonishing collection of 30 stolen shopping carts.
Just over a week later, on March 27, Teddy Lopez, 21, was arrested during a routine traffic stop for a seatbelt violation. Authorities uncovered an impressive stash of 11 kilograms of cocaine, 2.2 grams of fentanyl powder, 11 pressed fentanyl pills, 10 ounces of marijuana, and $1,700 concealed in a hidden compartment of his vehicle. López now faces multiple charges related to drug trafficking.
On the same day, police executed a search warrant at an apartment belonging to Jerry Taylor, 27. During the operation, they seized 2,500 pressed fentanyl pills, 16 grams of fentanyl powder, 16.6 grams of pressed methamphetamine pills, 16.6 grams of psilocybin mushrooms, an unidentified powder, and drug packaging materials. Taylor is also charged with possession with intent to deliver narcotics.
Earlier incidents in February highlight the ongoing issues surrounding domestic disturbances and minor drug offenses, showcasing the varied range of calls handled by Cranston police. On February 10, Carlos Zabaleta, 37, turned himself in on an A&A warrant, while Chrishana Burton, 35, was charged with domestic disorderly conduct later that day. Subsequently, on February 11, Talia Lisa, 37, faced charges of domestic simple assault and disorderly conduct.
As the month progressed, several more arrests occurred. On February 12, Joseph Almonte, 42, was charged with possession of schedule I-to-V drugs following a suspicious activity call at Walmart. Other arrests on the same day involved Andre Silveira, who violated a no-contact order, as well as Kerri Moul, 56, who was charged with felony shoplifting at Lowe’s.
Throughout February, the Cranston police also dealt with numerous shoplifting cases, which included incidents involving Javier Resto and Michael Acevedo Rivera at local retailers. The growing concern regarding shoplifting incidents and their link to overarching drug problems continues to be a focus for law enforcement.
The Chief of Police, Michael Winquist, highlighted the department’s unwavering commitment to addressing drug trafficking in the community. Arrests during these months serve to indicate that law enforcement agencies in the region are actively working to disrupt illicit drug activities and enhance public safety.
The recent spike in criminal activity emphasizes the necessity for ongoing vigilance and collaboration between law enforcement and the community to combat drug-related issues and restore safety. The Cranston Police Department’s actions reflect a proactive approach to maintain order and support the wellbeing of residents.
As the situation continues to develop, further investigations may uncover additional connections between the arrested individuals and ongoing drug-related activities in the area, reinforcing efforts to combat the drug epidemic that affects many communities.
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Additional Resources
- WPRI: Cranston Police Announce Drug Busts
- Wikipedia: Cranston, Rhode Island
- Turnto10: Bodycam Video Shows Cranston Police Finding Drugs
- Google Search: Drug Busts in Cranston Rhode Island
- ABC6: Cranston Police Make Several Significant Drug Seizures
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Drug Trafficking
- Cranston Online: Police Log
- Google News: Drug Crimes Cranston
