South Hadley man arraigned on cocaine, weapons charges

Gavel and scales

Gavel and scales Creatas

Staff Report

Published: 02-01-2024 5:44 PM

SOUTH HADLEY — A South Hadley man was ordered held on $3,000 bail following his arraignment Thursday in Eastern Hampshire District Court on charges of possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, subsequent offense, possession of a firearm without a license and several other weapons-related charges, according to the Northwestern district attorney’s office.

South Hadley Police, working with the Northwestern District’s Anti-Crime Task Force, executed a search warrant at the home of Justin Velez, 32, early Thursday on Cottage Avenue, from where he is alleged to have run a drug distribution operation.

Velez pleaded not guilty to the charges at the Belchertown court.

Yesterday's Most Read Articles

Local ‘Hands Off!’ standouts planned as part of national effort
Long-vacant former Faces spot in Northampton gets new tenant
Here come the sweetness: Four new businesses prepping to open in downtown Northampton
State senators organize Trump defense: Comerford a leader on Response 2025 initiative
Five UMass Amherst students have visas, student status revoked
Hatfield Select Board removes elected Housing Authority member