(WNY News Now) – Fredonia – A coordinated narcotics investigation in Fredonia has led to the arrest of six individuals and the seizure of a significant quantity of fentanyl, firearms, and drug paraphernalia.
In the early hours of August 22, 2024, a multi-agency task force executed a search warrant at 166 Newton Street in the Village of Fredonia, uncovering a large-scale narcotics operation. The search, conducted by narcotics investigators from the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office, Dunkirk Police Department, Jamestown Police Department, and Village of Fredonia, resulted in the arrest of six individuals and the confiscation of dangerous substances and weapons.
During the search, authorities seized 81.8 grams of fentanyl, six handguns, one rifle, 50 suboxone strips, quantities of oxycodone, as well as scales and packaging materials used for drug distribution. Additionally, $6,170 in cash was found at the scene.
The individuals arrested were identified as Dakota Cordell (27), Faith Grisanti (26), Brett Plucinski (34), Joseph Culmo (36), Nicholas Culmo (31), and Richard Culmo (63). Cordell, Grisanti, Plucinski, Joseph, and Nicholas Culmo were all charged with two counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the 3rd Degree and Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia in the 2nd Degree. Cordell faced additional charges for Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the 4th Degree and had three outstanding arrest warrants. Joseph Culmo also had a pending arrest warrant from the Village of Fredonia Court. Richard Culmo was charged with Criminal Nuisance in the 1st Degree and released on an appearance ticket.
The other five suspects were transported to the Chautauqua County Jail for centralized arraignment. As are all persons accused of a crime, the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Authorities urge the community to report any suspicious activity related to narcotics. Tips can be reported to the Dunkirk Police Department at 716-363-0313, the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office at 800-344-8702 or 716-664-2420, or the Jamestown Police Department at 716-483-8477.
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