Ten people are facing 153 charges in connection with an alleged cocaine trafficking operation in Ulster and Orange counties, according to New York Attorney General Letitia James.

The Attorney General’s Office says investigators recovered more than one kilogram of cocaine, valued at approximately $30,000, and more than $12,500 in alleged drug proceeds.

According to the Attorney General’s Office, the investigation began in November 2024 and involved hundreds of hours of physical and covert surveillance, court-authorized wiretaps, and a review of phone records and law enforcement databases.

Prosecutors allege members of the operation used coded language when discussing cocaine, including terms such as “pizza,” “pies” and “water.”

The 153-count indictment alleges two schemes centered on 51-year-old Michael Felicello of Marlboro, who prosecutors say operated a cocaine distribution network in and around Ulster and Orange counties.

Those charged are Michael Brown, 53, of Newburgh; John J. D’Angelo II, 53, of Wallkill; Lawrence A. Falcetta Jr., 53, of Marlboro; Michael P. Felicello, 51, of Marlboro; Deborah A. Foster, 70, of Marlboro; Jose A. Garcia, 57, of Newburgh; Jorge Lee, 48, of Marlboro; Joshua A. Mintz, 41, of Highland; Eric S. Oremus, 56, of Poughkeepsie; and Ernesto R. Rodriguez Jr., 25, of Marlboro.

Prosecutors allege Felicello obtained cocaine from several suppliers and then redistributed it to customers, some of whom allegedly resold the drugs.

On March 15, 2026, law enforcement seized half an ounce of cocaine from Garcia as he was allegedly traveling to supply Brown, who would then supply Felicello.

According to the Attorney General’s Office, Garcia returned to his residence minutes later to get more cocaine to fulfill the order.

The defendants face felony narcotics charges, including criminal sale and possession of a controlled substance, and conspiracy.

Of the 10 people arrested, nine were arraigned in Ulster County Court.