12/07/2022
This is my case. After my motion to suppress, the search warrant has been found to be invalid and all evidence has been suppressed. Another reason to make sure you have competent experienced representation should you ever be accused of a crime.
* POLICE ACTIVITY - PUBLIC INTEREST – Baymont Inn *
Kingston Police investigators conducted a multi-month investigation relative to the suspected sale of narcotics occurring at the Baymont Inn (149 Main Street, Kingston). That investigation revealed that there were in fact individuals who were dealing narcotics from the hotel. A search warrant was sought and granted. Based on historical information and intelligence received, including suspects having violent fi****ms related histories, the ex*****on of the warrant was deemed “high risk” of violence.
Subsequently, Kingston PD obtained the assistance of detectives from multiple neighboring agencies as well as the assistance of specially trained officers from southeastern Massachusetts including SEMLEC SWAT, K-9 units, negotiators and various other assets and equipment to safely execute the warrant.
During the early morning hours of this Veteran’s Day, several dozen law enforcement officers, many of whom are veterans themselves, gathered at Kingston PD to plan and execute this high-risk warrant. Shortly after 4:30 AM, units moved in and were able to use advanced training, equipment and techniques to safely execute the warrant. This included ballistic protection vehicles, negotiations, advanced tactical security, investigative resources to mitigate evidence destruction and more.
After negotiations, the suspects exited peacefully and were detained by SWAT units without incident and transferred to Kingston PD custody. The subsequent search by detectives revealed further evidence of the aforementioned crimes. Evidence recovered included several bags of suspected crack-cocaine which were pre-packaged for sale as well as several grams of suspected fentanyl, related paraphernalia and funds which are the suspected proceeds of drug sales.
The arrested parties are Cliff Thomas, 39, of Kingston and Osbey Tatum, 38, of Kingston. The suspects may be charged with crimes including: Possession w/ intent to distribute a Class A substance (fentanyl), Possession w/ intent to distribute a Class B substance (crack-cocaine), Conspiracy and other crimes. Suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Kingston PD recognizes that accomplishing the mission of getting these suspects into custody with no injuries took significant inter-agency planning and expert ex*****on. Thank you to our mutual aid partners for their help.
A portion of the seized property is displayed in the attached image. Media inquiries, please contact Sgt. Det. Michael Skowyra at [email protected]
