by A significant drug trafficking ring operating in western Pennsylvania has been dismantled, according to the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office. Authorities announced the arrest of 34-year-old Korrtezz Martin of Rochester, Beaver County, believed to be the leader of the operation.
Martin and 13 others are accused of trafficking fentanyl, cocaine, and crack cocaine across Beaver, Allegheny, and Washington counties from April 2023 to August 2024.
Attorney General Dave Sunday praised the work of narcotics investigators in stopping the network, stating that drug dealers “push poisons into our communities” without regard for lives.
Martin allegedly used co-conspirators as runners in a high-level distribution scheme. He now faces serious charges including possession with intent to distribute, criminal conspiracy, operating a corrupt organization, illegal firearms possession, and more.
Others arrested include:
- Edward Reynolds, 33, Pittsburgh
- Michael Motton, 34, Ambridge
- Daphne Scott, 53, Beaver Falls
- Victoria Jones, 31, Pittsburgh
- Chelsea Durr, 33, Beaver Falls
- Tyler McQuaid, 36, Ambridge
- Jack Balser, 31, Midland
- Katrina Balser, 35, Industry
All face charges tied to drug possession with intent to distribute, conspiracy, use of communication for criminal activity, and money laundering.
Additionally, Courtney Goode, 30, of Rochester, is charged with involvement in a corrupt organization and handling proceeds from illegal activity.
Four more individuals—Timothy Namath, Breanna Lewandowski, Dion Eberhardt, and Mara Hieber—have been identified but are not yet in custody or formally charged.
This fentanyl bust in Pennsylvania is part of an ongoing effort to combat dangerous drugs and protect local communities.
