Burlington Police Arrest Alleged Heroin Trafficker

Photo: Jazmin R. Patrocino, 23, of Lawrence. Courtesy Burlington Police Dept.

The Burlington Police Department Drug Unit has arrested an alleged heroin trafficker during a surveillance operation and investigation on Thursday, according to Police Chief Michael Kent.

Kent says the arrest comes as a result of the investigation and diligent police work. Officers arrested Jazmin R. Patrocino, 23, of Lawrence. He was charged with Trafficking in Heroin and Possession of a Class B Substance (Cocaine) with Intent to Distribute, both felonies.

Patrocino was arrested after plainclothes officers conducted surveillance on Cambridge Street near Kinney Avenue in response to complaints about drug dealing in the area.

Officers approached Patrocino in his vehicle after observing a drug transaction. Officers found 32 bags of brown powder that later tested positive for heroin and 9 small bags with a white powder that tested positive for cocaine.

Officers also seized Patrocino’s 1998 Nissan Altima as a drug car.

“Heroin is a national epidemic, and the Burlington Police Department will continue to show drug dealers that it is not a good idea to do business in our community,” Chief Kent said. “This case is an example of excellent police work and a result of the incredibly strong partnerships we have built with our residents and business owners who are equally unwilling to sit back and allow drug dealers in our town.”

Patrocino was held at the Burlington Police Department on $5,000 cash bail and is expected to be arraigned Friday in Woburn District Court.