ONE DEALER CAUGHT, ONE STILL ON THE RUN!

On Friday, May 22, 2026, at approximately 6:01 AM, Cristian Perez Abreu was taken into custody by members of the Hazleton Police Department Special Response Team (SRT) during the execution of a search warrant at his residence located on Emerald Court, Hazle Township, PA 18202. The search warrant was a result of a two-month long investigation conducted by the HPD Narcotics Unit, as part of the Luzerne County Drug Task Force, supported by the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) and the West Hazleton Police Department. 

During the investigation, HPD Narcotics Detectives identified Adrian Valerio, a co-conspirator to Perez Abreu’s illegal narcotics distribution. HPD Detectives conducted several surveillance details and controlled purchases of fentanyl from Perez Abreu’s residence. After substantial evidence was gathered and probable cause was established, Detectives applied for a search warrant, which was approved by the Luzerne County District Attorney’s Office and signed by the appropriate Magistrate. 

Durning a search of the residence, approximately 8,850 glassine packets of fentanyl, 87 grams of methamphetamine, 72 grams of cocaine, and $11,909 of US currency were seized as evidence. Perez Abreu was processed on (3) three felony counts of Possession with Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance. Perez Abreu was then arraigned by the on-duty Magistrate and was given $50,000 cash bail. Perez Abreu was subsequently transported to the Luzerne County Correctional Facility pending a preliminary hearing. 

As a result of this investigation, HPD Detectives are still actively attempting to locate Adrian Valerio on his felony arrest warrant for (4) counts Possession with Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance. Anyone with information regarding Valerio’s whereabouts can contact the Hazleton Police Department through Luzerne County Dispatch by dialing 911, or by submitting a tip to our Crimewatch page. All tips regarding Valerio will remain confidential. 

Our appreciation to the Hazleton Area community for their continuing support of our efforts. Who’s Next?