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Pocono News Section
Williamsport Couple Nabbed in Drug Bust
Williamsport Couple Nabbed in Drug Bust - Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 5:54PM EST
Reported by: Jeremy Deebel
Tuesday, Jun 24, 2008 @ 05:54pm EST
Williamsport, Lycoming County-
A husband and wife drug dealing team was arrested today in Williamsport following an 18 month investigation.
Ronald Hawkins, of West Fourth Street in Williamsport, had nothing to say as he left his arraignment. Both Ronald and his wife, Keri, face a slew of drug and weapons charges in what police describe as a $3,000 per week cocaine ring the couple operated here in the city.
Bill Watson lives less than a block away. "In a way I'm shocked to hear about a drug bust because I didn't think there was any drugs on the street because it was so quiet and nice down here. But I'll tell you, I'm glad they did bust them because that way I don't have to worry about them harming my children," Watson said.
According to arrest papers, undercover officers bought cocaine three times from Ronald Hawkins. Police also say he was selling counterfeit cocaine.
The Attorney General's office says the Hawkins’ did much of their drug dealing at a house on Franklin Street, before moving to a house on West Fourth Street, where they were arrested today. Neighbors here say they're glad officials are trying to clean up the streets.
Keri Hawkins is accused of buying nine handguns for her husband, who has a prior criminal record. The investigation began after one of the guns was recovered by Philadelphia police. Attorney General Tom Corbett explained, "Records show that the gun was purchased by Keri Hawkins only 37 days before it was recovered in Philadelphia...We need to stop putting guns on the streets and into the hands of criminals."
Bill Watson added, "We don't need no killings here in Williamsport and we don't need the drugs either. So the best thing they're doing is getting rid of them and I'm glad to see they're doing their job like that, you know?"
Ronald and Keri Hawkins both remain locked up tonight.
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