Cranston Police Department Executes Multiple Drug-Related Arrests

Cranston, R.I. – The Cranston Police Department has conducted several successful enforcement actions leading to significant drug seizures and multiple arrests over the past week. These operations underscore the department’s ongoing commitment to combat drug-related crimes and ensure public safety.

Major Drug Seizure Following Traffic Stop

On March 27, 2025, at approximately 9:58 AM, a Patrol Officer working a traffic enforcement detail conducted a traffic stop for a seatbelt violation at the Park Avenue and Reservoir Avenue intersection. Probable cause was established to search the vehicle, and with assistance from the Cranston Police K-9 Unit, officers located a substantial amount of illegal narcotics.

Seized from a hidden electronic compartment in the vehicle were:

• 11 kilograms of cocaine
• 2.2 grams of fentanyl powder
• 11 pressed fentanyl pills
• 10 ounces of various types of marijuana
• $1,700 in cash (seized for asset forfeiture)

This seizure is substantial valued at approximately $385,000

Officers arrested Teddy Lopez (21), of 400 Farmington Ave., Cranston, R.I., charging him with:

• Possession of Cocaine (Over 1 KG) with Intent to Deliver
• (2) Counts of Possession of Schedule II Narcotics Under 10 Grams
• Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Deliver
Disclaimer: All individual(s) contained in this press release are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Search Warrant Executed at Homeless Encampment

On March 19, 2025, after an extensive investigation by the Cranston Police Department Special Investigations Unit (SIU) regarding illegal narcotics distribution in the city, a search warrant was executed on a tent at a homeless encampment off Plainfield Pike near Route 295.
As a result of the search, SIU detectives discovered crack cocaine, crystal methamphetamine, drug packaging materials, two BB guns, a knife, $443 in cash, and 30 stolen shopping carts from Wal-Mart.

Detectives arrested Donald Iasimone (40), of no permanent address, charging him with:

• (2) Counts of Possession of Schedule II Narcotics with Intent to Deliver (Crack Cocaine
& Crystal Methamphetamine)
• (2) Counts of Carrying a Weapon When Committing a Crime of Violence
• (1) Count of Receiving Stolen Goods

Search Warrant Executed at 30 Cutting Ave.

On March 27, 2025, the Cranston Police SIU, in collaboration with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Task Force, executed a court-authorized search warrant at 30 Cutting Ave., 1st Floor, Cranston.

Detectives and agents seized:

• 2,500 pressed fentanyl pills
• 16 grams of fentanyl powder
• 16.6 grams of pressed methamphetamine pills
• 16.6 grams of psilocybin mushrooms
• An unidentified powder and various drug paraphernalia

The search resulted in the arrest of Jerry Taylor (27), of 30 Cutting Ave., 1st Floor, Cranston, R.I., who was charged with:

• (2) Counts of Possession with Intent to Deliver Schedule II Narcotics (Fentanyl)
• (2) Counts of Possession of Schedule I-V Narcotics Over 10 Grams

Cranston Police Department’s Commitment to Public Safety

These arrests and seizures reflect the Cranston Police Department’s ongoing efforts to combat the distribution of dangerous drugs in the community. Chief of Police Colonel Michael J. Winquist stated, “These enforcement actions send a strong message that illegal drug activity will not be tolerated in Cranston. Our officers remain committed to proactive policing and protecting our residents.”

The Cranston Police Department encourages residents to report any suspicious activity related to drug distribution by contacting the department. Anonymous tips can be submitted by texting
keyword CRANSTONPD with your tip to 847411.