On Tuesday, the Finger Lakes Drug Task Force conducted a drug-related search warrant at a home in Auburn, New York, resulting in the seizure of approximately $48,000 worth of illicit drugs. Ralph Principio and Anna Collonnese were found in possession of a mixture of heroin and fentanyl, along with over $11,000 in cash during a vehicle stop in Auburn.
The task force then conducted a search of the couple’s residence at 11 Madison Avenue and found 243 grams of heroin, 96 grams of cocaine, 317 grams of MDMA, and suspected LSD. A muzzle loader-style gun and drug paraphernalia consisting of packaging materials for heroin and/or fentanyl, along with digital scales, were also discovered.
Principio has been charged with two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree, one count of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the fourth degree, and one count of criminal possession of a weapon in the fourth degree.
Collonnese has been charged with two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree and one count of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the fourth degree. The suspects are being held pending arraignment.
The issue of opioid abuse and overdose has been a significant problem in the region, with the New York State Department of Health reporting 53 cases of opioid overdoses in Cayuga County in 2021. Of those cases, 18 resulted in death.
The Finger Lakes Drug Task Force, made up of local law enforcement agencies, has been working to combat the distribution and use of illegal drugs in the area.
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