Winthrop Police Arrest Alleged Drug Dealer, Seize Illegal Handgun, after Investigation

Winthrop Police seized a loaded handgun, other weapons, drugs and drug paraphernalia after a search. (Courtesy Photo/Winthrop Police Department) 
Winthrop Police seized a loaded handgun, other weapons, drugs and drug paraphernalia after a search. (Courtesy Photo/Winthrop Police Department)

WINTHROP — Chief Terence M. Delehanty reports that the Winthrop Police Department, after an investigation into drug distribution activity in the community, arrested a reputed drug dealer and seized weapons, drugs and an illegal handgun.

Lead investigator, Detective Andrew Biggio and members of the Winthrop Police Department, as a result of an investigation, obtained a search warrant for SHKAMB ROKA, AGE 29, OF WINTHROP and a vehicle registered to him.

On Wednesday, Nov, 23, at 2 p.m., Detective Biggio and other officers made a traffic stop of ROKA and his gray Volkswagen hatchback at the intersection of Bowdin
and Buchannan streets. ROKA was read his rights and detained during the search. Investigators found a folded up piece of aluminum foil with a white powdery substance later determined to be cocaine in the vehicle. Officers also found a bag on the passenger side of the vehicle containing a brownish powder believed to be Fentanyl as well as various other drugs including Xanax pulls, at least 16 oxycodone pills and a quantity of crack cocaine. Officers also found a scale, plastic bags, spoons, vials and other items used to package and distribute drugs.

Finally, officers found a plastic garbage bag full of laundry. At the bottom of the bag, police found a loaded Springfield 9mm semiautomatic handgun. ROKA is not licensed to own or carry firearms.

ROKA is known to police.

ROKA was placed under arrest without incident and charged with:

  • Unlawful Possession of Firearm without FID
  • Unlawful Possession of Ammo without FID
  • Possession with intent to distribute a Class B Substance (Two Counts)
  • Possession with intent to distribute a Class A Substance
  • Possession with intent to distribute a Class E Substance

ROKA was booked and held at the Winthrop Police Department pending his likely arraignment Friday at Boston Municipal Court, East Boston Division.

The firearm’s serial number and photos were sent to the ATF for further information on the weapon’s origin and history.

These are allegations. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty.

 

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Winthrop Police Arrest Alleged Drug Dealer, Seize Illegal Handgun, after Investigation