News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 30, 2005

Violent Drug Gang Disrupted in Williamsport, PA

On August 30, 2005 the Scranton Resident Office obtained (6) federal indictments and executed (3) federal search warrants against members of the BLOOD GANG who were distributing crack and heroin in Williamsport Pa. This investigation was initiated May 23, 2005 targeting a violent drug trafficking organization in Williamsport headed by Willie Johnson. This organization has also been linked to shootings and robberies in Williamsport. The majority of the identified members of this BLOOG GANG are from the Newark, New Jersey area. The DEA/Scranton Resident Office (SRO) initiated this investigation in conjunction with the Lycoming County Drug Task Force, US Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania State Police, Williamsport Police Department and Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Agents were able to make numerous undercover heroin and crack buys from several co-conspirators which enabled agents to secure three federal search warrants and six federal arrest warrants. According to Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Philadelphia Field Division, James M. Kasson, “… today’s enforcement action has resulted in a major drug trafficking organization being disrupted. The success of this investigation is directly related to the close cooperation and information sharing between the investigating agencies. The results of these arrests will positively impact the safety and security of the residents of Williamsport.”