The Providence Police Department’s Narcotics Bureau has published information on three major investigations that resulted in the dismantling of various drug distribution operations in Providence and nearby regions.
During these investigations, investigators confiscated 473.92 grams of fentanyl, 539.24 grams of cocaine, $8,592 in cash, three weapons, ammunition, high-capacity magazines, and drug distribution equipment. Seven adult suspects were arrested and charged with several felony offenses, while one juvenile was detained on similar accusations.
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- 1 Curtis Street Investigation
- 2 Admiral Street / Washington Avenue Investigation
- 3 Multi-Location Investigation in Providence and Warwick
“This was an extraordinarily impactful week for our Narcotics Bureau,” Providence Police Chief Oscar Perez declared. “These cases demonstrate our detectives’ persistence and teamwork in targeting individuals responsible for spreading harmful narcotics in our communities. Every gram of fentanyl taken off the streets means a possible life spared.
Curtis Street Investigation
Following a months-long investigation that lasted from January to mid-April, Narcotics detectives identified Joan M. DeJesus and an associate later identified as Rafelin Soto Tejada as being involved in fentanyl distribution across Providence and into Massachusetts.
On April 13, 2026, police carried out a court-authorized search warrant at 80 Curtis Street. Soto Tejada was stopped upon entering the apartment. A K9 unit swiftly alerted detectives to a recliner where Soto Tejada had been reclined, revealing a huge amount of fentanyl stashed within. DeJesus was detained after arriving at the building as the warrant was being executed.
Detectives seized 317.01 grams of fentanyl, a digital scale, packing materials, and several telephones. Both suspects were arrested without incident.
DeJesus and Soto Tejada have each been charged with possession with intent to deliver fentanyl, possession of more than one ounce of fentanyl, and conspiracy. Soto Tejada faces additional accusations, including obstruction and identity fraud, for first supplying detectives with incorrect identifying information.
Admiral Street / Washington Avenue Investigation
In a separate multi-month investigation, Narcotics investigators, in collaboration with the Attorney General’s Violent Crime Initiative, targeted Luis “DiDi” Gonzalez, who was identified as a cocaine and MDMA distributor in Providence and Cranston. Detectives discovered Gonzalez was operating from various sites, including homes on Admiral Street in Providence and Washington Avenue in Cranston, thanks to surveillance and targeted purchases.
On April 15, 2026, investigators carried out synchronized surveillance and saw Gonzalez traveling with Jack Baldayac. Both people were stopped and jailed, and search warrants were executed concurrently at both locations.
Detectives seized cocaine, digital scales, cutting agents, and ammunition from the Admiral Street flat. A search of the Washington Avenue residence uncovered additional cocaine, drug distribution materials, and a loaded weapon with extended magazines and large amounts of ammunition. When Gonzalez was arrested, cash was also recovered from him.
In total, detectives seized 112.62 grams of cocaine, $2,655 in cash, and one Glock. A 40 caliber pistol with large-capacity magazines.
Gonzalez and Baldayac are both facing various felony accusations, including possession with intent to supply cocaine, possession of cocaine in excess of one ounce, conspiracy, and a number of firearm-related violations, including possession of a firearm while involved in drug trafficking.
Multi-Location Investigation in Providence and Warwick
In the third investigation, narcotics detectives worked with members of the Attorney General’s Violent Crime Initiative and local law enforcement partners to target a coordinated drug trafficking network that operated from various houses in Providence and Warwick.
Detectives performed controlled purchases and surveillance throughout the investigation, identifying Arnardo Valerio, Fredelin Calcano, and Elian Gil Gutierrez as significant players in the cocaine and fentanyl trafficking networks. Investigators discovered that the group used various locations and cars, including what seemed to be a “stash” place for storing narcotics prior to distribution.
On April 16, 2026, multiple search warrants were executed concurrently in various locations. During the operation, investigators observed narcotics being thrown out a window at one location as officers entered.
Searches at various sites yielded considerable amounts of narcotics, including 426.62 grams of cocaine and 156.91 grams of fentanyl, as well as around $5,937 in cash. Detectives also discovered two weapons (one Taurus .25 caliber and one 9mm handgun), as well as ammo, scales, and packaging supplies associated with drug distribution.
Valerio, Calcano, and Gutierrez were arrested and charged with a variety of felonies, including possession with intent to deliver cocaine and fentanyl, possession of controlled drugs in excess of one ounce, conspiracy, and drug trafficking-related firearm violations. A minor was also arrested and charged separately in connection with this investigation.
These investigations demonstrate the Providence Police Department and its law enforcement partners’ continuous dedication to disrupting the distribution of hazardous narcotics and holding offenders accountable.
