Billerica – On Thursday, December 8, 2016, at approximately 2:30 PM, detectives from the Billerica
and Tewksbury Police Department arrested Joel Perez-Matos, 31, currently living in Acton, MA for charges of Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin and Cocaine (subsequent offense) in Billerica. Perez-Matos was stopped by detectives following tips received from Billerica residents of suspicious activity in the North Billerica area. A subsequent roadside search of his motor vehicle by a Billerica narcotics sniffing canine lead to the discovery of a large amount of individually packaged quantities of what is believed to be heroin and cocaine. In addition, approximately $1,600 in various denominations of U.S. Currency was located on the defendant. Perez-Matos provided a false name to officers on scene but was later positively identified through his fingerprints. Perez-Matos was previously deported to the Dominican Republic in 2012 following a Massachusetts State Prison term for similar offenses. In addition to the drug charges, Perez-Matos is being charged with Operating with a Suspended driver’s license. He will be arraigned in Lowell District Court on December 9, 2016.

**All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court

Any additional questions should be directed to Deputy Chief Roy Frost, 978-215-9653