In a shocking turn of events, a New York Police Department (NYPD) officer and her live-in partner were arrested for their involvement in distributing fentanyl and heroin. Grace Rosa Baez, a 37-year-old NYPD officer, and Cesar Martinez, 43, were charged with conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and heroin, as well as narcotics distribution.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Southern District of New York announced the charges against them on Friday. This arrest highlights a disturbing breach of trust, as Baez, who had sworn to protect and serve the people of New York City, is now accused of pushing dangerous substances that contribute to the nation’s deadly opioid crisis.
Law enforcement officials have been relentless in combatting the sale of these deadly drugs. U.S. Attorney Damian Williams emphasized that regardless of who the perpetrators are, they will aggressively pursue those responsible for peddling these lethal poisons.
Baez, who had served as an NYPD officer for over a decade, had been living with Martinez in an apartment. While the exact nature of their relationship hasn’t been clarified, it is evident that they were involved in illicit activities together.
This case against Baez unfolded after an investigation into allegations of misconduct in 2020, leading to her being placed on modified duty. The FBI, in collaboration with other law enforcement partners, will continue to investigate and hold accountable anyone who endangers the community through drug sales.
During the period of October 9 to October 18, Baez and Martinez engaged in conversations with a confidential source, whom they believed to be a drug trafficker. The couple offered to sell kilogram quantities of fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine to the source. Baez even claimed that the fentanyl was of top quality, and arranged for the source to receive a sample of the drugs.
On October 16, Baez met the source near her apartment and handed over a plastic candy container, allegedly containing fentanyl. Testing later confirmed the presence of the deadly substance in the sample. Over the next few days, Baez continued to communicate with the source, offering to sell heroin and cocaine. Shockingly, some of these conversations took place while she was on duty as an NYPD officer.
NYPD Police Commissioner Edward A. Caban expressed his disappointment and emphasized that there is no place for corruption within the department. This ordeal, if proven true, not only tarnishes the reputation of the shield Baez wore but also violates the sacred oath she took to protect the people of New York.
During the arrest, law enforcement officers witnessed a package of suspected narcotics being thrown outside Baez and Martinez’s apartment. Upon searching the premises, they discovered a kilogram press machine and additional narcotics that Martinez allegedly tried to discard.
This case is being handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Narcotics Unit, underlining the severity of the charges and the commitment to bringing justice to those involved in drug trafficking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What were Grace Rosa Baez and Cesar Martinez arrested for?
Grace Rosa Baez, an NYPD officer, and her live-in partner, Cesar Martinez, were arrested for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and heroin, as well as narcotics distribution.
2. How long had Baez served as an NYPD officer?
Baez had been employed as a police officer with the NYPD for over a decade, from 2012 until her recent arrest.
3. Did Baez and Martinez know they were dealing with a confidential source?
Yes, Baez and Martinez had numerous conversations with a confidential source whom they believed to be a drug trafficker.