by A significant drug trafficking bust in Western Pennsylvania has led to the arrest of 14 individuals, including Korrtezz Martin, 34, from Beaver County. The group is accused of trafficking fentanyl, cocaine, and crack cocaine across multiple counties, including Beaver, Allegheny, and Washington. The charges were announced by Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday on Tuesday.
Details of the Alleged Drug Operation
Korrtezz Martin and his alleged co-conspirators are said to have run a sophisticated drug distribution operation from April 2023 to August 2024. The operation involved the trafficking of pressed fentanyl pills and cocaine, with Martin allegedly serving as the leader of the drug network. Martin faces numerous charges, including possession with intent to distribute, criminal conspiracy, dealing in proceeds from unlawful activities, illegal firearm possession, and criminal use of communication facilities. He is currently held on a $500,000 bail.
According to the Attorney General’s Office, Martin used a network of runners to distribute drugs across the region. The investigation, led by the Bureau of Narcotics Investigation, successfully pinpointed Martin as the head of a major drug distribution chain.
Drug Traffickers Arrested in Western Pennsylvania
The 14 individuals charged in connection with this operation face a range of serious charges, including possession with intent to deliver, criminal conspiracy, and dealing in the proceeds of unlawful activity. Ten of the 14 suspects were arrested on Tuesday, with authorities taking action to dismantle the drug network that had been pushing dangerous substances into communities.
The following individuals were also arrested and charged:
- Edward Reynolds (33)
- Dion Eberhardt (35)
- Mara Hieber (29)
- Michael Motton (34)
- Daphne Scott (51)
- Victoria Jones (31)
- Chelsea Durr (33)
- Breanna Lewandowski (21)
- Tyler McQuaid (36)
- Jack Balser (31)
- Katrina Balser (35)
Each faces charges related to drug distribution and conspiracy, with bail set between $50,000 and $500,000, depending on the individual’s involvement in the operation.
Additionally, Timothy Namath (40) and Courtney Goode (30) were also charged with criminal conspiracy and drug-related offenses.
Efforts to Combat Drug Trafficking in Pennsylvania
The arrests were made possible through the collaboration of multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Pennsylvania State Police, the Drug Enforcement Agency’s High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas program, and local task forces in Beaver County. The successful operation highlights the continuous efforts of Pennsylvania’s law enforcement to combat the growing threat of fentanyl and other illicit drugs.
Attorney General Dave Sunday emphasized the seriousness of the charges, stating that drug traffickers are endangering communities by distributing harmful substances without regard for human life. His office is committed to prosecuting those who prioritize profits over the well-being of others.
Continued Legal Action
The case is being prosecuted by Senior Deputy Attorney General Kara Cotter from the Drug Strike Force Section. As the investigation continues, all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
