Providence police seize a record amount of heroin

Police display 23 kilograms of heroin, believed to be worth more than $1 million at wholesale, but much more on the street. Photo by Steve Klamkin WPRO News

WPRO News & the Associated Press 

Providence police have seized at least $1 million worth of heroin in one of the largest drug busts in city history.

Authorities say they found nearly 51 pounds (23 kilograms) of pure heroin hidden in school bus seats in a city apartment Friday morning. Officials say the heroin could be worth at least $4 million when diluted with other substances and sold on the street.

“A massive, impressive seizure of drugs that will reverberate with the demand side in this community,” said Police Chief Hugh Clements.

The bust came during an investigation by city detectives looking into large amounts of heroin being sold and bought in Providence.

“People will be safer and this does prevent the loss of life,” said Mayor Jorge Elorza.

Police arrested 45-year-old Jose Figueroa Rosales on drug charges after they say he allowed authorities to search the apartment. He is being held without bail. It isn’t clear if he has a lawyer who could respond to the allegations.

Mugshots distributed by the Providence Police of Jose Figueroa Rosales, 45 of Cranston, arrested during the seizure of 23 kilograms of heroin November 16.

 

 

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