NEW BEDFORD - A New Bedford municipal employee was one of 30 people arrested during "Operation Stop the Flow." Providence Police, in conjunction with law enforcement agencies in southeastern Massachusetts, arrested 30 individuals they say had been distributing heroin and fentanyl through Rhode Island and the Southcoast.

One of the individuals arrested is Michael Poitras, 50, of Fall River. Poitras is the Chief Water Treatment Plant Operator for the City of New Bedford. Poitras is charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin.

Department of Public Infrastructure Commissioner Zeb Arruda tells WBSM News Poitras was hired about six months ago, and has been placed on unpaid administrative leave pending the outcome of his case.

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