Runman Arrested on Drug Trafficking Charges, Claims He Was Set Up

John "Runman" Smith, a NYC delivery man, was arrested on drug trafficking charges. His lawyer claims he was framed by a rival, but the DEA stands by its investigation. The case highlights the ongoing fight against drug crime.

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Salman Akhtar
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Runman Arrested on Drug Trafficking Charges, Claims He Was Set Up

Runman Arrested on Drug Trafficking Charges, Claims He Was Set Up

John "Runman" Smith, a 32-year-old resident of New York City, was arrested on Tuesday by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) on charges of drug trafficking. According to the DEA, Smith was found in possession of over 10 kilograms of cocaine during a raid on his apartment in the Bronx.

The arrest came after a months-long investigation by the DEA into Smith's alleged drug trafficking activities. Authorities claim that Smith has been a key player in a major drug distribution ring operating in the New York City area. "This arrest is a significant blow to the drug trade in our city," said DEA Special Agent in Charge, Michael Smith, in a statement to the press.

However, Smith's attorney, Lisa Johnson, has vehemently denied the charges against her client. In a statement released to the media, Johnson claimed that Smith was set up by a rival drug dealer who planted the cocaine in his apartment. "My client is innocent of these charges," Johnson said. "He has never been involved in drug trafficking and we believe this is a case of mistaken identity."

According to Johnson, Smith is a small business owner who runs a legitimate delivery service in the city. She claims that one of Smith's competitors, who she declined to name, has been trying to frame Smith in order to eliminate competition. "This is a classic case of someone being set up by their enemies," Johnson said. "We intend to fight these charges and prove my client's innocence in court."

The DEA has dismissed Johnson's claims, stating that they have strong evidence linking Smith to the drug trafficking operation. "We stand by our investigation and the charges against Mr. Smith," said Agent Smith. "The evidence we have gathered clearly shows his involvement in this criminal enterprise."

Why this matters: The arrest of John "Runman" Smith highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat drug trafficking in major cities across the United States. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for the fight against illegal drugs and the tactics used by drug dealers to evade authorities.

Smith is currently being held without bail pending his arraignment on the drug trafficking charges. If convicted, he could face up to life in prison. His attorney has vowed to mount a vigorous defense and plans to file a motion to dismiss the charges at the earliest opportunity. The DEA, meanwhile, has said that their investigation into the drug trafficking ring is ongoing and that more arrests could be forthcoming in the near future.

Key Takeaways

  • John "Runman" Smith, 32, arrested on drug trafficking charges in NYC.
  • DEA claims Smith was found with 10kg of cocaine during apartment raid.
  • Smith's lawyer says he was framed by a rival drug dealer.
  • DEA stands by charges, says evidence links Smith to drug ring.
  • Smith faces life in prison if convicted; more arrests expected in case.