AMSTERDAM — Montgomery County police agencies capped a six-month investigation into drug sales in the Amsterdam area by arresting seven people this morning.

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Amsterdam drug arrests

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About 50 members of the Montgomery County Task Force, including the Amsterdam Police Department, Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office and New York State Police, took part in the arrests.

"It is an ongoing problem but a problem that needs special attention and continuous work," said Amsterdam police Det. Lt. Tom DiMezza. "By taking these individuals off the street, you cut off the supply to the buyer and also stop these individuals, who mostly get into selling because of their own drug addiction, from stealing and committing other crimes."

The following people were arrested and will be arraigned in City Court:

- Joseph DePalma, 48, of 8 Hibbard St., was charged with felony third-degree criminal sale of a controlled substance.

- Marie McNeil, 47, also of 8 Hibbard St., was also charged with felony third-degree criminal sale of a controlled substance.

- Pedro Cruz, 32, of 8 McElwain Ave., was charged with felony third-degree criminal sale of a controlled substance.

- Luis Barrera, 28, of 60 Division St., was charged with felony third-degree criminal sale of a controlled substance.

- Jason Carmona, 28, of 28 Kline St., was charged with misdemeanor fourth-degree criminal sale of marijuana.

- Lisandro Garcia, 26, of 37 Slater St., was charged with felony third-degree criminal sale of a controlled substance.

- Angelo Dalmau, 38, of 288 Florida Ave., was was charged with felony third-degree criminal sale of marijuana.

"It is not something we ever foresee stopping, but we have to have continued pressure to remain on top of these criminals and keep our city safe," DiMezza said.