Philadelphia Man Charged for Cocaine Sales in Lackawanna County

Authorities say Robert Berry sold crack cocaine to an informant in Scranton.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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A 33-year-old Philadelphia man named Robert Berry has been charged with felony drug offenses after allegedly selling crack cocaine to a confidential informant in Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania. Police say they observed Berry leaving a known drug distribution site and then meeting with an intermediary, before the informant purchased crack cocaine from the residence.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement to target the distribution of hard drugs like cocaine in smaller cities and suburban areas outside of major metropolitan centers. Crack cocaine in particular has been a persistent problem in many communities, contributing to public health and safety concerns.

The details

According to the criminal complaint, on February 23rd, police met with a confidential informant who said Berry was staying at a hotel in Dunmore and selling crack cocaine. Officers located Berry's vehicle at the hotel, then watched him drive to a residence in Scranton known for drug activity. An informant then went into the home and purchased crack cocaine after meeting with an intermediary who had just spoken with Berry at his vehicle. Police later stopped Berry and found 17 grams of crack cocaine on him, as well as the marked bills used in the controlled purchase.

  • On February 23, 2026, police met with a confidential informant about Berry's alleged drug dealing.
  • Around 1 PM on February 23, 2026, police located Berry's vehicle at a hotel in Dunmore.
  • Later that day on February 23, 2026, an informant purchased crack cocaine from a residence in Scranton after meeting with an intermediary who had spoken with Berry.
  • On February 23, 2026, police stopped and arrested Berry, finding 17 grams of crack cocaine on him.

The players

Robert Berry

A 33-year-old man from Philadelphia who has been charged with felony drug offenses for allegedly selling crack cocaine in Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania.

Pennsylvania State Police

The state law enforcement agency that assisted in the investigation and arrest of Berry.

Lackawanna County District Attorney's Office

The local prosecutor's office that is handling the criminal case against Berry.

Kipp Adcock

The district judge who denied bail for Berry at his arraignment, noting he was on parole.

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What they’re saying

“Berry was well known to law enforcement from prior drug investigations.”

— Trooper Travis Graziano (The Times-Tribune)

What’s next

A preliminary hearing for Berry is scheduled for March 5, 2026, where a judge will determine if there is enough evidence to proceed with the felony drug charges.

The takeaway

This case demonstrates the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to target the distribution of hard drugs like cocaine, even in smaller cities and suburban areas outside of major metropolitan centers. It highlights the persistent challenge of crack cocaine sales and the need for comprehensive approaches to address the public health and safety concerns in affected communities.