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Homeland Security Investigation Leads To $294K Cocaine Bust In PA

A joint investigation with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) led to the arrest of a Columbia man and the seizure of more than $294,000 worth of cocaine and marijuana, the Lancaster County Drug Task Force announced on Thursday, Nov. 21, 2024.

Roderick Gonzalez-Perez and the drugs seized from his home.

Roderick Gonzalez-Perez and the drugs seized from his home.

Photo Credit: Lancaster County District Attorney's Office

Roderick Gonzalez-Perez, of the 800 block of Blunston Street, was arrested on Oct. 4 after authorities intercepted a package containing over five kilograms of cocaine en route to his home from Puerto Rico. The package, addressed to “Senior Perez,” was flagged during transit, prompting a collaborative investigation by the Drug Task Force and HSI.

After removing the cocaine from the package, authorities delivered it to Gonzalez-Perez’s home. When he retrieved it, he was taken into custody without incident. A subsequent search of his residence and vehicle revealed an additional 888 grams of cocaine and 1,137 grams of marijuana, investigators said.

Three days later, Columbia Borough police discovered a second package at Gonzalez-Perez’s residence. A search revealed approximately two kilograms of cocaine inside, police said.

In total, authorities seized 8.1 kilograms of cocaine valued at $283,500, 1,137 grams of marijuana valued at $11,370, and $1,161 in cash during the investigation.

Gonzalez-Perez was charged with felonies of possession with intent to distribute cocaine, possession with intent to distribute marijuana; and misdemeanor: possession of drug paraphernalia. His bail was set at $500,000 by Judge Michael Hess, and he remains in Lancaster County Prison.

All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

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