Hazleton Man Jailed In Heroin Investigation

Via HPD press release :

Based on the investigation throughout July and August by the Hazleton City Police Department Narcotics Unit in conjunction with the Luzerne County Drug Task Force into the illegal sale of narcotics, specifically heroin/fentanyl and crack-cocaine, in the Alter Street business district area, more so, 1st and Alter Streets throughout 5th and Alter Streets a raid was conducted.

Numerous controlled buys were conducted during the investigation involving Julius FREEMAN (Arrested September 12, 2017) and Jose RODRIGUEZ-MEDRANO (At Large at that Time).

On September 12, 2017, 1022 hours, a search warrant was executed at 569 Alter Street Apartment #5, where RODRIGUEZ-MEDRANO was staying, by the Hazleton City Police Department Special Operations Group, Hazleton City Narcotics Unit, Hazleton City Police Department Patrol Division and members of the Luzerne County Drug Task Force when Rodriguez-Medrano evaded the officers.

Today, on September 21, 2017, at approximately, 3:00 PM, after an intensive search and surveillance by Hazleton Narcotics Detectives, JOSE RODRIGUEZ-MEDRANO was located sitting in the rear of 530 W. Maple Street, Hazleton. Narcotics Detectives and numerous Hazleton Patrol Units coordinated their efforts and surrounded the location when the individual fled from the police into the location.

K-9 ENDY was deployed by Sgt. Kirk Wetzel and utilized to locate the individual who was hiding behind a wall when he was taken into custody by the officers.

Jose RODRIGUEZ-MEDRANO, DOB: 05/09/1991, 569 Alter Street, Apt. 5, Hazleton, PA 18201
Charges: (6) Counts of Delivery of a Controlled Substance all Felony charges
(1) Possession of heroin with Intent to Deliver, Felony

PENDING ARRAIGNMENT

STATEMENT:

"The capture of this fugitive is indicative of the pursuit of justice by the men and women of Hazleton's Finest."

"Whether you remain in Hazleton, cross a jurisdictional boundary or an ocean, we will reach out and grab you and bring you back to face justice."