THE BRONX, N.Y. (PIX11) — Eight men have been indicted on charges related to the sale of drugs and firearms from a Sprinter van retrofitted with a walk-up window.
However, not even the specter of being caught selling outside Yankee Stadium intimidated those in the criminal enterprise.
According to NYPD Deputy Inspector Miguel Iglesias, an undercover narcotics cop from The Bronx bought cocaine and eight guns during 29 visits between March and May.
The suspects arrested stashed away nearly half a million dollars and were seized in a raid that led to a 100-count criminal indictment.
According to prosecutors, one gun buy even occurred outside a Yankees game on April 10 at 6:30 p.m.
"This was a problematic location — several community complaints," said Iglesias.
Investigators seized on those complaints and found the men used the van to sell marijuana from a walk-up window and concealed weapons, including an AK-47, in the wheels outside 90 East 161st Street.
The Bronx District Attorney collaborated with police to charge the crew.
"The Bronx has been underinvested, not enough resources, so we've seen a rise in crime, overall but gun violence in particular," said Bronx District Attorney Darcel Clark.
This year, the NYPD has confiscated nearly 3,400 guns from city streets. Authorities said they aim to curb crimes like this to benefit fans and the community.
However, a PIX11 News crew witnessed four open-air drug deals in less than five minutes as fans lined up for Tuesday's afternoon game.
"That's concerning, especially people paying good money to be here," said season ticket holder George Georgopoulos.
The stubborn pop-up sidewalk shop on East 161st Street flew in the face of the NYPD's raid on May 17.
"When we lock up five or six guys, some other narco crew can take over and sell there again," said Iglesias.
NYPD promised to monitor the location closely, and the DA's office sent investigators back to the location after receiving reports of the alleged activity.
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