The Providence Police Department Narcotics Bureau had a highly productive enforcement week, culminating in three significant investigations that dismantled multiple drug distribution operations across Providence and surrounding communities.
Over the course of these investigations, detectives seized approximately 473.92 grams of fentanyl, 539.24 grams of cocaine, $8,592 in U.S. currency, and three firearms, along with ammunition, high-capacity magazines, and drug distribution materials. Seven adult suspects were arrested and charged with multiple felony offenses, and one juvenile was taken into custody on related charges.
“This was an extraordinarily impactful week for our Narcotics Bureau,” said Providence Police Chief Oscar Perez. “These cases reflect the persistence and coordination of our detectives, who continue to target those responsible for distributing dangerous narcotics in our neighborhoods. Every gram of fentanyl removed from the street represents lives potentially saved.”
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80 Curtis Street Investigation (April 13, 2026)
Following a months-long investigation spanning from January through mid-April, Narcotics detectives identified Joan M. DeJesus and an associate later identified as Rafelin Soto Tejada as individuals involved in distributing fentanyl throughout Providence and into Massachusetts.
On April 13, 2026, detectives executed a court-authorized search warrant at 80 Curtis Street. Upon entry, Soto Tejada was located inside the apartment and detained. A K9 unit quickly alerted detectives to a recliner where Soto Tejada had been seated, leading to the discovery of a large quantity of fentanyl concealed within. DeJesus was simultaneously detained after arriving at the building during the execution of the warrant.
Detectives seized 317.01 grams of fentanyl, along with a digital scale, packaging materials, and multiple cellphones. Both suspects were taken into custody without incident.
DeJesus and Soto Tejada are each charged with possession with intent to deliver fentanyl, possession of fentanyl in excess of one ounce, and conspiracy. Soto Tejada also faces additional charges including obstruction and identity fraud after initially providing false identifying information to detectives.
241 Admiral Street / 1 Washington Avenue Investigation (April 15, 2026)
In a separate multi-month investigation, Narcotics detectives, working in conjunction with the Attorney General’s Violent Crime Initiative, targeted Luis “DiDi” Gonzalez, who was identified as a distributor of cocaine and MDMA throughout Providence and Cranston. Through surveillance and controlled purchases, detectives determined that Gonzalez was operating out of multiple locations, including residences on Admiral Street in Providence and Washington Avenue in Cranston.
On April 15, 2026, detectives conducted coordinated surveillance and observed Gonzalez traveling with Jack Baldayac. Both individuals were stopped and detained, while search warrants were simultaneously executed at both locations.
At the Admiral Street apartment, detectives recovered cocaine, digital scales, cutting agents, and ammunition. At the Washington Avenue residence, a search yielded additional cocaine, drug distribution materials, and a loaded firearm with extended magazines and significant amounts of ammunition. Cash was also seized directly from Gonzalez at the time of his arrest.
In total, detectives seized 112.62 grams of cocaine, $2,655 in U.S. currency, and one Glock .40 caliber firearm with large-capacity magazines.
Gonzalez and Baldayac are each facing multiple felony charges, including possession with intent to deliver cocaine, possession of cocaine in excess of one ounce, conspiracy, and several firearm-related offenses, including possession of a firearm while engaged in drug trafficking.
Multi-Location Investigation (April 16, 2026)
Locations: Providence and Warwick
In the third investigation, Narcotics detectives, along with members of the Attorney General’s Violent Crime Initiative and local law enforcement partners, targeted a coordinated drug distribution network operating across multiple residences in Providence and Warwick.
Over the course of the investigation, detectives conducted controlled purchases and surveillance, identifying Arnardo Valerio, Fredelin Calcano, and Elian Gil Gutierrez as key participants in the distribution of cocaine and fentanyl. Investigators determined that the group utilized multiple residences and vehicles, including what appeared to be a “stash” location used to store narcotics prior to distribution.
On April 16, 2026, multiple search warrants were executed simultaneously at various locations. During the operation, detectives observed narcotics being thrown from a window at one location as officers made entry.
Searches across the locations resulted in the seizure of significant quantities of narcotics, including 426.62 grams of cocaine and 156.91 grams of fentanyl, as well as approximately $5,937 in U.S. currency. Detectives also recovered two firearms (one Taurus .25 caliber and one 9mm handgun), along with ammunition, scales, and packaging materials consistent with drug distribution.
Valerio, Calcano, and Gutierrez were taken into custody and charged with multiple offenses, including possession with intent to deliver cocaine and fentanyl, possession of controlled substances in excess of one ounce, conspiracy, and firearm offenses related to drug trafficking. A juvenile was also detained and charged separately in connection with this investigation.
These investigations highlight the ongoing commitment of the Providence Police Department and its law enforcement partners to disrupt the distribution of dangerous narcotics and hold offenders accountable.
