A West Lawn man was arrested on drug and weapons charges following a months-long investigation by the Berks County Drug Task Force, officials announced.
Juan Carlos Soto-Arizmendi, 31, of the 2100 block of Reading Boulevard, was taken into custody after authorities executed a search warrant on December 11, 2024, in Shoemakersville. The warrant, which covered Soto-Arizmendi’s body, vehicle, and cellphone, was obtained as part of an investigation that began in August in the City of Reading.
During the search in the 300 block of Logistics Drive, investigators seized 37 plastic packets containing crack cocaine, one gram of unpackaged crack cocaine, packaging materials, and an AZ-Force stun gun, according to the Berks County District Attorney’s Office.
Soto-Arizmendi was formally charged with possession with intent to deliver cocaine, possession of cocaine, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of prohibited offensive weapons. He was arraigned on February 10, 2025, before Magisterial District Judge Alvin Robinson and was released on $50,000 unsecured bail.
Authorities emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and encouraged anyone with information to contact Berks County Detectives at 610-478-7171. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Alert Berks County by calling 877-373-9913, using the ALERTBERKS mobile app, or texting ALERTBERKS along with the tip to 847411.
Officials also reminded the public that criminal charges are accusations, and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.