NEW BEDFORD (WBSM) — New Bedford Police arrested two men, including one with an extensive history of being arrested for narcotics, following an alleged North End drug deal.

According to police, detectives were working in the area of 1261 Church Street on January 23 when at around 8 p.m., they observed Andy Coakley, 37, of New Bedford – who they say is a known drug dealer – arriving and meeting with another man.

The detectives believed an alleged drug deal was taking place, so they stopped both men.

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Police said Coakley was found with three plastic bags containing 104.2 grams of cocaine, a plastic bag of fentanyl weighing 57 grams, another plastic bag on his person containing 11.5 grams of fentanyl, and $5,758 in cash.

Coakley was arrested and charged with distribution of cocaine, trafficking in excess of 100 grams or more of cocaine, trafficking in excess of 36 grams or more of fentanyl, conspiracy to violate the drug law, and resisting arrest.

The other man was charged with possession.

Police said that Coakley has 31 adult arraignments, with two convictions for dealing cocaine and marijuana. They said 26 of his other arraignments have been dismissed.

“It’s unfortunate that our detectives invest significant time and resources tracking known criminals who, despite repeatedly cycling through the criminal justice system, have their cases dismissed and are released back onto the streets of New Bedford,” Police Chief Paul Oliveira said.

“I want to acknowledge the relentless dedication and hard work of our detectives,” he said. “Their commitment to keeping our community safe, despite these setbacks, is truly commendable.”

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