Charge Dropped, Suspect Held in U.S. Mail Cocaine Trafficking Case

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Federal postal inspectors, FBI, and local police tracked a package containing over a kilogram of cocaine mailed from Puerto Rico to a Pennsylvania apartment, where it was accepted by a woman. Hours later, the package was picked up by Tomas Edgardo Figueroa Rivera, who was arrested and admitted to previously receiving and selling multiple kilogram quantities of cocaine shipped from Puerto Rico. One charge was withdrawn, but a felony drug charge was held for trial.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing challenge of combating drug trafficking through the U.S. mail system, particularly the flow of narcotics from Puerto Rico to mainland states. It also raises questions about bail policies for suspected drug dealers and the ability of law enforcement to disrupt regional drug supply chains.

The details

Postal inspectors tracked a package mailed from Puerto Rico that tested positive for cocaine. They obtained a warrant, replaced most of the drugs with a tracking device, and delivered the package to an apartment in Meadow Glen, Pennsylvania. A woman accepted the package, and hours later Figueroa Rivera arrived, took possession of it, and was arrested nearby with about 109 grams of cocaine. He admitted to previously receiving and selling kilogram quantities of cocaine shipped from Puerto Rico.

• On August 13, 2025, a U.S. Postal Service parcel mailed from Puerto Rico tested positive for narcotics.
• On August 19, 2025, postal agents and police delivered the package to an apartment in Meadow Glen, Pennsylvania.
• Hours after the delivery, Figueroa Rivera arrived, took the package, and was arrested nearby.

What’s next

Figueroa Rivera's formal arraignment is set for March 6, where the remaining felony drug charge will be addressed by the court.