Three Arrested in Holyoke Drug Bust

Police seized heroin, fentanyl, cocaine and crack-cocaine near Soucy Park following investigation into open-air drug dealing.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Three people were arrested in Holyoke, Massachusetts on Friday morning after police seized over $1,200 in cash and large quantities of heroin, fentanyl, cocaine and crack-cocaine near Soucy Park. The arrests came after a weeks-long investigation into open-air drug dealing in the area based on citizen and business owner complaints.

Why it matters

The drug bust in Holyoke's Soucy Park highlights ongoing issues with open-air drug dealing and distribution in the city, which has struggled with substance abuse and addiction challenges. The arrests aim to disrupt drug trafficking networks and improve quality of life for residents in the affected neighborhood.

The details

Holyoke Police, along with task force officers from the FBI, DEA and Hampden County, conducted the operation. Detectives observed suspected drug deals in the area and detained three individuals - Felix Gonzalez, Matthew Peterson and Jessica Holmes. From the suspects, police recovered over 100 bags of suspected heroin/fentanyl, as well as quantities of cocaine and crack-cocaine, and over $1,200 in cash.

  • The investigation into open-air drug dealing in the area had been ongoing for several weeks prior to the arrests.
  • The arrests and drug seizure took place on Friday morning.

The players

Holyoke Police Department

The local police force that conducted the drug bust operation in coordination with state and federal task forces.

Felix Gonzalez

A 40-year-old Holyoke resident charged with possession with intent to distribute Class A drugs, conspiracy to violate drug laws, and possession of Class A drugs.

Matthew Peterson

A 39-year-old Ware resident charged with distribution of Class A drugs, possession with intent to distribute Class A and B drugs, conspiracy, and possession of Class A and B drugs.

Jessica Holmes

A 30-year-old Brookfield resident charged with possession with intent to distribute Class A drugs, conspiracy, and possession of Class A drugs.

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What they’re saying

“We must continue to work together to address the opioid crisis and remove dangerous drugs from our streets.”

— Brian Keenan, Holyoke Police Chief

What’s next

The three suspects will appear in court for arraignment on the drug charges in the coming days.

The takeaway

This drug bust in Holyoke's Soucy Park demonstrates the ongoing efforts by local and federal law enforcement to combat open-air drug dealing and distribution that contributes to substance abuse issues in the community.