JUDGE DENIES BAIL IN DRUG CASE

Three Allentown residents arrested this month after they allegedly tried to
sell a kilogram of crack cocaine to undercover police have been ordered to
remain in Lehigh County Prison.

During a detention hearing last week, U.S. Magistrate Judge Arnold Rapoport
denied bail for Roque Padilla, 46, of 137 N. Third St.; Edward Vargas, 22,
of 307 N. Jordan St.; and Augustine Gutierrez, 25, of 840 Walnut St.,
second floor.

Authorities seized a half-kilo of powder cocaine when they served a search
warrant at Padilla's address.

The three committed the alleged drug transaction in Washington Township,
Northampton County.

The bust is one of the largest single seizures of crack in the Lehigh
Valley, according to the federal Drug Enforcement Administration. The crack
has a wholesale value of $30,000 and a much higher street value,
authorities said.

Authorities have conducted several investigations in their attempt to rid
the Bangor area of drugs. Former Bangor Mayor Robert Janus and his wife
were arrested during a previous operation.