4 arrested in Auburn drug bust; fentanyl seized from sewer


  • Auburn Police Department (Facebook)

    AUBURN — Auburn police arrested 4 people recently after a traffic stop led to the discovery of fentanyl, including some recovered from a sewer grate.

    Detectives monitoring an area of suspected drug activity stopped a vehicle for motor violations on Adella Street at approximately 12:44 p.m. Thursday, according to the Auburn Police Department. As the vehicle pulled over, a backseat passenger, later identified as Miguel Alvarez, 39, of Worcester, fled on foot.

    While running, Alvarez ripped open bags of white powder, later identified as fentanyl, and attempted to dispose of them in a sewer. He was apprehended without further incident.

    A search of the vehicle revealed additional fentanyl in the possession of the driver, Melissa Cain, 31, of Millbury, and another passenger, Stephen Moore, 34, of Uxbridge. Both were arrested at the scene.

    A subsequent investigation led to the arrest of Dana Ordway, 53, of Auburn, on an outstanding misdemeanor warrant unrelated to the drug case.

    Alvarez was charged with trafficking fentanyl over 10 grams and held on $25,000 bail pending a dangerousness hearing. Cain and Moore were charged with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and released on personal recognizance after court appearances. Ordway was released on personal recognizance.

    Detectives, assisted by the Auburn Department of Public Works, recovered evidence from the sewer. Police emphasized that there was no remaining threat to the public.

    Authorities encouraged residents to report suspicious activity and assured complaints would be promptly addressed. Tips can be submitted anonymously to Auburn police at 508-833-7777 or via email at textatip@auburnmasspolice.org.

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