Seven Arrested in Portland Drug Trafficking Bust

PORTLAND, Maine — Seven individuals were arrested on February 11, 2025, during a police raid at an apartment on Congress Street suspected of drug trafficking. The operation was carried out by the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency (MDEA) and the Portland Police Department following community complaints and a thorough investigation.

Officers executed a high-risk search warrant at 1:30 p.m. at apartment 402, located in the multi-resident building at 658 Congress Street. The raid came after police responded to over a dozen calls in the past two months regarding suspected drug sales, threatening behavior, and disturbances associated with the apartment.

Police identified 46-year-old Bruce Cavallaro as the renter of the apartment, suspecting him of coordinating the distribution of illegal substances, including fentanyl, methamphetamine, and crack cocaine. Residents had expressed feelings of intimidation and harassment from individuals frequenting the apartment.

“During this time, agents from the Maine Drug Enforcement’s Cumberland District Task Force were investigating illegal drug trafficking from apartment 402,” said a police spokesperson. “Evidence indicated that Cavallaro and several others were engaging in drug sales both inside the unit and in common areas of the building.”

The building’s landlord had filed for a writ of possession due to the illegal activities, which was granted by Cumberland County District Court. Cavallaro had previously refused to vacate the property following eviction notices served on February 2 and February 7.

After the search warrant was executed, authorities seized significant quantities of illegal narcotics and other evidence linked to drug trafficking. According to the MDEA, the investigation is still ongoing, and additional charges may be forthcoming.

“The safety of the building’s residents was our priority, and we appreciate the community’s vigilance in reporting suspicious activities,” the press release added. “We encourage anyone with information about illegal drug activities in their neighborhood to reach out to law enforcement.”

The arrested suspects were transported to the Cumberland County Jail following their detainment without incident. Police have not disclosed the identities of the other six individuals arrested but stated that all are currently in custody as the investigation progresses.

Anyone with further information regarding the case or potential drug trafficking incidences is urged to contact the MDEA tip line at 1-800-452-6457, or text MDEA to TIP411 (847411).