2 Massachusetts Men Charged in Bangor for Trafficking in Fentanyl

An investigation into the sale of fentanyl in Bangor has netted two arrests and $75,000 in illegal drugs.

What Led Police to the Group from Massachusetts?

Maine Department of Public Safety spokesperson Shannon Moss says the investigation focused on a group from Lowell, Massachusetts after the overdose death of a woman in Bangor in 2021. Investigators had received information that the woman had allegedly obtained fentanyl from this group that was allegedly trafficking in the drug in the Greater Bangor area.

Police say 26-year-old Lawrence Camillo and associates were allegedly traveling to Maine from Lowell, Massachusetts and staying in local hotels. Camillo would allegedly distribute fentanyl to local drug users, including purchases by undercover drug agents.

Where Was the Drug Bust and What Was Seized?

At approximately 10:30 Wednesday night, agents from the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency and Bangor Police Officers executed two search warrants in rooms at the Hollywood Slots Casino, where Camillo and his associates were staying.

Seized in that search:

670 grams of fentanyl
110 grams of cocaine
$14,000 in suspected drug proceeds

Officials say the estimated street value of the drugs seized is approximately $75,000.

Who Was Arrested?

Two people arrested at the hotel were transported to the Penobscot County Jail:

Lawrence Camillo, 26, of Lowell, Massachusetts - Charged with Class A Aggravated Trafficking in Schedule W Drugs, and Class B Trafficking in Schedule Drugs. Bail was set at $120,000 cash. The charge was elevated to aggravated due to allegedly causing the death of another.
Joel Peralta, 26 of Lowell, Massachusetts - Charged with Class A Aggravated Trafficking in Schedule W Drugs and Class B Trafficking in Schedule Drugs. No bail was set. This charge was elevated to aggravated because of the amount of drugs seized.

Additional charges are expected for both men.

If you have information about this investigation or the illegal sale of drugs in your community, you're urged to contact the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency nearest you. You can also text MDEA to TIP411 (847411) or by calling the MDEA tip-line at 1-800-452-6457.