Projo 7 to 7 News Blog

FALL RIVER -- The police have arrested six people in connection with an alleged heroin dealing operation on Valentine Street, according to a report released today.

At about 9:50 p.m. Friday, detectives executed a search warrant at 41 Valentine St. After repeatedly knocking on the door, they said they forced their way inside, where they found three people, 141 bags of suspected heroin, and $71 in cash.

While the police were inside the house, one of the residents continued to receive calls from would-be customers, the police said. Two callers were arrested when they later came to the house. A third caller, who asked to be met elsewhere, was also taken into custody by the police.

Courtney Lapointe, 31, Michelle Gonsalves, 33, and Phillip Leonardo, 32, all residents of 41 Valentine St., were each charged with conspiracy to violate drug laws. In addition, Lapointe faces a charge of possession with intent to distribute heroin.

Maria Gheewala, 31, of 6858 Whitman Way, Sarasota, Fla., and Frank Mello, 39, of 123 Duluth St., Fall River, were charged with conspiracy after they went to 41 Valentine St. allegedly trying to purchase heroin.

Charles Dosvais, 30, of 386 Durfee St., Fall River, was also charged with conspiracy after trying to have drugs delivered to his residence, according to the police.

-- Journal staff writer Alex Kuffner

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