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38 Arrested in Mass. 'Devil's Highway' Drug Sweep That Includes N.H. Trafficking

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Federal authorities say a weekslong investigation into drug trafficking in Massachusetts has led to about 50 arrests and the seizure of large amounts of fentanyl, heroin and cocaine.

U.S. Attorney for MassachusettsAndrew Lelling said in a statement Monday the 10-week operation code named Devil's Highway was a coordinated effort by federal, state, and local partners to focus on drug distribution in Lawrence and between Lawrence and New Hampshire.

Lelling called Lawrence "a hub of illegal drug distribution for all of New England."

In addition to the 38 people facing federal drug offenses, at least a dozen more face state charges. Investigators also seized 14 kilograms (31 pounds) of fentanyl, five kilograms (11 pounds) of heroin, 29 kilograms (64 pounds) of cocaine, four firearms, and body armor.

The majority of criminal charges resulted from weekly sweeps in Lawrence that targeted individuals distributing opioids.

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