This is a file image of a Rhode Island State Police cruiser. (WLNE)
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE)- Rhode Island has been nationally recognized for its Project Safe Neighborhoods investigation.
Thirty-six federal, state, and local law enforcements were honored with a national Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces award on Wednesday.
Officials took on an eight-month investigation, also known as “Operation Panamera.”
Twenty-three individuals were charged with the seizure of 13 kilograms of fentanyl, 11 kilograms of cocaine, 11 kilograms of marijuana, and 2 kilograms of psilocyn mushrooms.
Ten vehicles, a handgun, and $60,000 in cash were also found.
The drug trafficking organization imported and redistributed to drug dealers in the state.
All suspects were found guilty in U.S. District Court in Providence and sentenced to prison.
“This award is a testament to two things: the results that flow from effective coordination among our law enforcement partners, and the commitment of those agencies to dismantle and disrupt significant drug trafficking in our state and region,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Cunha. “I am pleased to see the team deservedly recognized with this award.”
