A large-scale drug operation disguised as a coffee shop in Philadelphia has been dismantled, resulting in the arrest of 17 individuals, Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday announced on Sunday.

Operation Cocaine and Coffee

The takedown, dubbed 'Operation Cocaine and Coffee,' focused on Cumberland Coffee and Snacks, a storefront authorities say was used to cook and package crack cocaine for street-level distribution. The second floor of the establishment served as the central hub for the illegal activity.

Longtime Criminal Network

Lewis Alexander, 56, is alleged to have led the organization, which officials say has inflicted “absolute harm” on the community for over a decade. Many of those arrested are described as longtime figures in the drug trade, with several suspects well past middle age.

“Well, today, North Philadelphia’s, the Lewis Alexander drug trafficking organization, they have a new turf and it’s inside a correctional facility,” Attorney General Sunday stated. He added, “Some of the defendants here are in their 50s, 60s and 70s.”

Widespread Investigation

The operation extended beyond the coffee shop, with authorities executing warrants at approximately 30 locations across Philadelphia, Delaware County, and New Jersey. A nearby bar and barbershop were also included in the investigation as officials worked to dismantle the entire network.

“The criminal organization has remained like weeds as families and homeowners have moved in and out of residences in the area,” Sunday explained.

Seized Evidence and Charges

The raid resulted in the seizure of 27 firearms, roughly four pounds of cocaine, over 130 pounds of marijuana, fentanyl, ecstasy, and a significant amount of cash. The defendants face felony charges including running a corrupt organization, drug trafficking, and illegal firearm possession.

Lewis Alexander is currently being held on $750,000 bail.