Latest update April 14th, 2026 12:38 AM
Three T&T nationals charged in U.S. drug conspiracy probe
(TRINIDAD GUARDIAN) U.S. Embassy personnel from the Drug Enforcement Administration Vetted Unit, supported by the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service Special Investigative Unit and the Transnational Organised Crime Unit, executed three Provisional Arrest Warrants on December 30, 2025, for Trinidad citizens Rafael Joseph, Michael McSween and Clevon Persad.
All three face charges in the Eastern District of New York for conspiracy to import cocaine into the United States and firearms offences stemming from a 2024 DEA investigation supported by the DEA New York Field Division.
The embassy identified Joseph as an active-duty police officer serving in the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service. U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Dr. Jenifer Neidhart de Ortiz said, “This was a great example of bilateral cooperation between our two countries and a significant blow to not only drug and firearms trafficking, but also against public corruption with the arrest of the police officer. The outstanding cooperation between the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s Vetted Unit and SIU and TOCU shows the multiplier power of agencies of both of our great countries working together.”
Commissioner of Police Allister Guevarro said, “I can confirm that close collaboration with United States law enforcement authorities has resulted in the successful arrest of a TTPS member who is now awaiting deportation. This joint operation reflects the strength of our international partnerships and our unwavering commitment to accountability at every level of the organisation. The TTPS remains resolute in upholding the highest standards of integrity, and we will continue to work with our global counterparts to ensure that anyone who betrays the public trust is brought to justice.”
DEA Caribbean Division Special Agent in Charge Michael A. Miranda said, “This operation reflects the strength of true bilateral partnership. The successful execution of these provisional arrest warrants by the Trinidad and Tobago Vetted Unit, with support from SIU and TOCU, sends a clear message: no one is above the law. Together, we are not only dismantling drug and firearms trafficking networks, but also confronting public corruption head-on. When trusted partnerships stand united, our communities are safer and justice prevails.”
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