Task Force Breaks Up Regional Narcotics Ring With Manchester Arrests

MANCHESTER, CT — Authorities said they have broken up a narcotics ring with arrests in Manchester.

Police said the East Central Narcotics Task Force has concluded a lengthy investigation into a drug trafficking organization operating in Manchester. During the investigation, task force members identified three individuals believed to be involved in distributing narcotics throughout the region — Jerry Mercado, 39, 0f Hartford; Reymond Rojas of Hartford, and Yosti Vega, 45, of East Hartford.

Based on "investigative findings," state-issued arrest warrants were obtained for Mercado, Rojas and Vega for various narcotic-related violations and, on Nov. 14, ECN personnel, with assistance from the East Hartford Police Department canine unit, conducted a motor vehicle stop, during which officers located and apprehended Mercado and Vega, authorities said.

During the stop, Mercado was found to be in possession of approximately 97 grams of raw fentanyl and “Grey Death,” a dangerous mixture containing fentanyl, PCP, and cocaine, authorities said. He was also found to have 63 grams of crack cocaine, 37.5 grams of powder cocaine, approximately $3,500 in money suspected to be from narcotics sales and various packaging materials commonly used in the "distribution of illegal drugs," authorities said.

Rojas was not present during the operation and is currently in federal custody for narcotic violations.

As a result of the investigation and arrest, Mercado was charged with possession with
intent to sell a narcotic substance, possession with intent to sell 1 ounce or more of a
narcotic substance, possession of a controlled substance, operating a drug factory,
and possession of drug Paraphernalia.

Mercado was held on bonds totaling $675,000 and assigned a court date of Dec. 12 in Manchester.

Vega was charged with narcotic violations that include possession of a controlled substance and possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Vega was released on a $10,000 bond and assigned a court date of Dec. 12 in Manchester.