Undercover narcotics bust nabs nearly 40 alleged drug dealers, including Hudson Valley teacher

The evidence was seized in the Port Jervis-based operation authorities call “Operation Final Blow.”

Blaise Gomez

Sep 28, 2022, 9:35 PM

Updated 573 days ago

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Authorities from the tri-state area gathered in Orange County Wednesday behind a table full of narcotics, cash and illegal firearms.
The evidence was seized in the Port Jervis-based operation authorities call “Operation Final Blow.”
They say 16 search warrants were executed on Monday, and six people are facing drugs sales charges and 30 are facing conspiracy charges. 
The bust spanned three states: New York, Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
Police say one of the people arrested is 24-year-old Monticello teacher and football coach Jack Piscitelli, and that many of the defendants were people you wouldn't expect to be selling drugs.
“The lines between those who are criminals and the lines between those who are normal business operators and those who go about their normal daily activities are very blurred often," said Orange County District Attorney Dave Hoovler. "Many of these individuals that are charged here operated in plain sight around individuals who went about their daily work habits that just basically blended into the community.”
Authorities say six defendants are being held on bail and that the remaining suspects were released due to New York's bail reform. 
Authorities say they are looking for four defendants and that additional arrests could follow.


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