BUFFALO, NY - Nine people were arrested in a drug raid in Buffalo Thursday morning.
WEB EXTRA: Click here to read the indictment
The U.S. Attorney's WNY office and DEA say a federal grand jury has returned a 33 count Indictment charging Theresa Anderson, 58, of Buffalo, and eight others with participating in a drug enterprise allegedly operating for over ten years.
The indictment says Anderson and some members of her immediate family and close friends were involved in drug trafficking on two streets in Buffalo over the past 10 years.
Investigators say Theresa Anderson was the alleged leader of the group who obtained and supplied quantities of cocaine to other members of the organization, who then sold the cocaine on Swinburne and Deshler Streets in the City of Buffalo.
"Today's indictment carries two powerful messages," said U.S. Attorney William Hochul. "First, to those engaged in any form of organized criminal activity - you are being targeted and your days are numbered. Second, to residents in our community - law enforcement is committed to protecting you, your families, and your property. If you see something, say something. Today's case is not only a credit to our law enforcement partners, it is also an example of how the public and police can work together to rid our streets of predators."
Anderson is charged with continuing criminal enterprise, conspiracy, operating a narcotics manufacturing premise, and specific incidents of narcotics trafficking. She could face 20 years to life in prison if convicted
Charged with conspiracy and drug trafficking are:
Steven Butler, 28
Dion Anderson, 31
Melvin Calhoun, 47
Anquensha Hodge, a/k/a Anne Anderson, 25
Wymiko Anderson, a/k/a Red, 37; Toshia Hodge, a/k/a Toshia Anderson, 28
Tajia Anderson, a/k/a Porkchop, 26
Leo Mellerson, 29
These charges carry a sentence of 10 years to life in prison if convicted.