Williamsburg Man Charged with Running Large-Scale Drug Packaging and Distribution Operation
A Williamsburg man is facing charges for allegedly running a large-scale drug packaging and distribution operation following an eight-month wiretap investigation, authorities announced Tuesday.
Seizure of Drugs and Firearms
George Capella, 45, was arrested on Dec. 4 after law enforcement officials reportedly seized approximately 33 kilograms of cocaine, over six kilograms of fentanyl, $420,000 in cash, eight loaded firearms, and drug paraphernalia during a raid on his residence and vehicles, according to the Office of the Special Narcotics Prosecutor (SNP).
Investigation and Arrest
Prior to Capella’s arrest, the New York Drug Enforcement Task Force (NYDETF), which includes agents from the DEA New York Division, the NYPD, and the New York State Police, conducted the wiretap investigation, dubbed “Operation Interstate Powder.”
Authorities then began surveillance on Capella’s residence at 151 Leonard Street in Williamsburg. On Dec. 4, investigators allegedly saw him retrieve two suspected kilogram-sized packages of narcotics from a black Honda Accord parked outside his building before entering his residence. Hours later, Capella left in a Lincoln Aviator, which was stopped by law enforcement nearby. Officials say they recovered seven cell phones from the vehicle.
Search Warrants and Recovery of Drugs and Firearms
After obtaining court-authorized SNP search warrants, officers searched the Honda Accord, Lincoln Aviator, and Capella’s residence. Inside the Honda, investigators reportedly found 33 kilogram-sized packages of cocaine and over six kilograms of fentanyl. The drugs were labeled with luxury brands, including Moet and Louis Vuitton symbols.
Authorities said several of the narcotics were wrapped in various types of plastic packaging, including some with images of “Baby Yoda” from Star Wars. Agents also allegedly recovered eight loaded firearms, three of which were hidden in a compartment inside the Honda, along with an imitation pistol. The Lincoln Aviator contained a drug residue-coated scale and another cell phone, authorities said.
Additional Findings and Charges
A search of Capella’s residence allegedly uncovered additional drugs and narcotics packaging equipment, including a kilogram press machine, a scale, and stamps. DEA laboratory tests confirmed the drugs included cocaine, fentanyl — some dyed pink — methamphetamine, and heroin packaged in glassine envelopes.
Conclusion
Capella remains in custody as the investigation continues. The Office of the Special Narcotics Prosecutor (SNP) and the New York Drug Enforcement Task Force (NYDETF) worked together to bring this large-scale drug packaging and distribution operation to a halt, seizing a significant amount of drugs and firearms in the process.
FAQs
Q: What was the alleged crime?
A: George Capella, 45, is accused of running a large-scale drug packaging and distribution operation.
Q: What was seized during the raid?
A: Approximately 33 kilograms of cocaine, over six kilograms of fentanyl, $420,000 in cash, eight loaded firearms, and drug paraphernalia were seized during the raid.
Q: What was the investigation called?
A: The investigation was dubbed “Operation Interstate Powder.”
Q: What is the status of the accused?
A: Capella remains in custody as the investigation continues.