Long Island couple accused of running major cocaine operation
LAKE RONKONKOMA, Long Island (WABC) -- A Long Island couple is under arrest, accused of running a major cocaine operation out of their Lake Ronkonkoma home.
Suffolk County District Attorney Tim Sini said 31-year-old Kobaski Claros and his 24-year-old girlfriend Maria Rivera sold the drugs out of their apartment on Mill Road.
They allegedly conducted the sales out of high-end vehicles, including a Land Rover and a Mercedes-Benz.
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During their arrest, authorities say 1.5 kilos of cocaine with a street value more than $150,000 were seized, along with $13,000 in cash.
"These defendants are each charged with a top count of Operating as a Major Trafficker, which is a serious charge for serious drug traffickers," Sini said. "They used the profits of their alleged drug trafficking operation to fund a lavish lifestyle, including high-end vehicles, designer clothing and shoes, and expensive jewelry. This was a lucrative business for the pair, but it has been effectively shut down because of the great work of law enforcement."
Claros is being held on $3 million bond and reportedly had a number of previous felony arrests.
Rivera is being held on $2 million bond.
The investigation began last March after law enforcement allegedly observed Claros conduct a drug sale on a side street near the Red Lobster on Express Drive South in Ronkonkoma, and it included confidential informants and undercover officers who infiltrated the alleged drug network.
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If convicted of the top count, Claros and Rivera each face a maximum sentence of 25 years to life in prison.
Claros' attorney said both suspects plan to fight the charges.
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