Pubdate: Tue, 21 Dec 1999
Source: New York Times (NY)
Copyright: 1999 The New York Times Company
Contact:  http://www.nytimes.com/
Forum: http://www10.nytimes.com/comment/

10 TRUCKERS ARRESTED IN DRUG STING

PHILADELPHIA -- Ten truck drivers were arrested on drug charges
and their rigs were confiscated Tuesday after officers posed as drug
dealers selling crack cocaine, police said.

``This is not only a drug issue but a public safety issue,'' police
Capt. David Testa said. ``We're worried about these people driving
around in their big rigs high on crack.''

After receiving complaints from residents and businesses that truck
drivers were coming into the area to buy drugs, Testa said officers
posed as truckers -- with trucks donated from local trucking companies
- -- and purchased drugs from six known drug dealers, who were then arrested.

Police then posed as drug dealers and sold crack cocaine to 10
truckers, who were subsequently arrested and charged with attempting
to buy a controlled substance, Testa said. The sting took place in the
area of South Philadelphia where many trucking companies and food
distribution centers are located, he said.
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