Two Arrested In Car Stop That Yielded Oxycodone and Cash
October 26th, 2011 | 
Author: LOWELL, MA (October 26, 2011) – A routine traffic stop by an alert Lowell Police Officer resulted in two persons being arrested and a seizure of (3,977) Oxycodone pills and over $8,000 in cash. The street value of the Oxycodone seized is estimated to be approximately $119,310.00. Oxycodone is an opiate-based prescription pain medication.
Arrested were: Alexander Hernandez, 33, of Lawrence, MA and Anibal Torres, 42, of Methuen, MA Both have been charged with Trafficking in Class B Controlled Substance over 200 grams and Trafficking of 200 grams in a school zone (Robinson School) and Conspiracy to Violate the Narcotics Laws. Both defendants are scheduled to be arraigned today in Lowell District Court.
At approximately 2:20 a.m. on Wednesday, October 26, 2011; Officer Jose Ramirez observed a vehicle pass by his location on Bridge Street in Lowell. The vehicle’s license plate was not illuminated, making it unreadable to the officer; which is a violation of Massachusetts motor vehicle law. Off. Ramirez affected a stop of the vehicle. While speaking with the driver he further observed that the passenger was not wearing a safety belt, also a violation of Massachusetts motor vehicle law. The on-scene investigation during the vehicle stop led to a large quantity of Oxycodone pills and cash being discovered.
“This highlights the point that “routine” traffic stops are anything but, “routine.” In today’s mobile society, anytime an officer stops a motor vehicle for a minor infraction there is the potential that he or she is going to be involved in a much more serious encounter.” Said Deputy Superintendent Arthur Ryan, “In this case Officer Ramirez initiated an action that at first appeared to be minor, but ended up identifying and arresting two individuals that had the potential to cause a lot of harm to our community. The abuse of prescription drugs, in particular, Oxycodone, is an epidemic that is tearing families apart and fueling crime throughout our country. I, as well as the entire Lowell Police Department are proud of the efforts of Officer Ramirez and the efforts all the Lowell police officers to make our City safer and a better place to live.”
These charges are allegations and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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