In a significant drug bust, police in New Kensington arrested a man suspected of dealing multiple illegal substances. Tarique Taron Godson, 31, was taken into custody on Wednesday morning after city police and the Westmoreland County Drug Task Force executed a search warrant at a residence in the 400 block of Fourth Avenue.
The Tribe Live newsite reported that the search operation, which began shortly after 10:30 a.m., involved officers breaching the front door after receiving no response to their knocks. The presence of two security cameras on the front porch and sounds of screaming from inside further prompted their immediate action.
Inside the house, officers found Godson in the kitchen, accompanied by two women and two small children. According to the criminal complaint, Godson admitted that the items the police were searching for were located in the garage, including a firearm.
The search revealed a substantial haul of illegal drugs and related paraphernalia. Police reported discovering 1.5 ounces of fentanyl pills valued at approximately $9,700, 1.3 ounces of cocaine worth $3,800, an ounce of crack cocaine valued at $2,800, and a small quantity of illegal mushrooms worth $70. Additionally, officers found over 2 ounces of marijuana divided into 16 packets, although its value was not specified.
Other items seized included crack cooking supplies, a digital scale, and a loaded .22-caliber pistol. Given Godson's previous felony convictions for burglary in 2011 and a drug charge in 2018, his possession of a firearm was illegal.
One of the most striking discoveries was $57,000 in cash found in a basement storage room, along with $110 in Godson’s wallet. Police noted that Godson had no verifiable source of income, raising further suspicions about his drug-dealing activities.
Godson now faces a series of charges, including multiple felony and misdemeanor drug offenses and a felony firearms offense. He was denied bail during his arraignment on Thursday afternoon before District Judge Jason Buczak.
This arrest underscores the ongoing efforts of local law enforcement to combat drug trafficking and reduce the associated violence and crime in the community. The significant quantity of drugs and cash seized highlights the scale of the illegal operations being conducted.
Individuals struggling with drug addiction can find help, and there is no need to remain trapped in the cycle of illegal drug use and trafficking. Avenues Recovery stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration amidst the confusion of addiction. If you or your loved one is involved with drugs, we are here to help, and we don’t give up on anyone. If you could benefit from our services, please reach out to us and begin your journey to freedom from addiction.