Over 300 Kilos of Cocaine Seized in One of Long Island’s Largest Drug Busts

More than 300 kilos of cocaine were seized in Nassau County in what officials are calling one of the largest drug busts ever on Long Island.

Police say officers on patrol last week noticed suspicious activity in a Holiday Inn parking lot on Sunnyside Boulevard in Plainview. After approaching a pickup truck believed to be involved in a drug deal, officers opened the vehicle’s trunk and discovered 312 kilos of cocaine.

Two men were arrested and charged with drug possession. Prosecutors are now seeking upgraded charges of major drug trafficking for Daniel Santana of Glen Cove and Michael Viera of Florida. Both have pleaded not guilty. Authorities also say the men are facing murder charges in Puerto Rico.

Officials estimate the street value of the drugs at more than $21 million.

Nassau County leaders praised the officers’ training and awareness, crediting their quick action for stopping what they believe was a major distribution pipeline.

Investigators say the suspects were likely couriers, and the investigation continues into where the drugs originated and where they were headed.

Prosecutors emphasized that keeping this large quantity of cocaine off the streets likely prevented countless overdoses and saved lives.

Credit: CNN Newsource

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