YouTube videos lead to drug bust, five charged
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PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE)- Coventry police got an unlikely assist in an investigation when several suspects were seen in YouTube videos promoting their gun and drug-dealing talents, according to a statement the department released today.
Police from the towns of West Warwick and Scituate aided the Coventry police in an investigation after receiving multiple complaints of drug-dealing and gun-play by the individuals.
Additional evidence was gathered when police came across the YouTube video entitled “No Hook” that detailed illegal exploits by some members of what police have called a “drug distribution ring.”
Police said more charges are pending, but thus far have charged the following:
- William Brown, 27, of Scituate, is charged with possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine, obstructing a police officer, harboring a criminal, and possession of fraudulent credits cards.
- Christopher Schreffler Jr., 28, of Coventry, is charged with controlled substance conspiracy.
- Mackenzie Armstrong, 21, of Coventry, is charged with controlled substance conspiracy.
- Eduardo Medeiros, 20, of Coventry, is charged with possession with intent to deliver crack cocaine and carrying a firearm while committing a crime of violence.
Edward Lepore, 27, of West Warwick, is also facing charges and is wanted by police for obstructing a police officer, according to detectives.
While carrying out the warrants for what they termed “Operation Hooked”, police were assisted by the West Warwick/Coventry Regional SWAT Team, the Rhode Island State Police Tactical Team, and the State Fire Marshal Technical Services Unit (Bomb Squad).
©WLNE-TV/ABC 6 2020
