A Westfield resident has been arrested following a three-month long investigation into the trafficking and distribution of narcotics through the US mail from Puerto Rico to Northern Chautauqua County.

According to the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office, Miguel Maldonado, 32, of Westfield was taken into custody Monday without incident in Silver Creek for allegedly receiving packages containing more than 6 kilos of cocaine from Puerto Rico, utilizing the United States Postal Service. On Thursday, Maldonado was arraigned by the Honorable Judge Kenneth Schroeder on the charge of attempting to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing cocaine, a schedule II controlled substance. Police said other details are not available at this time as the investigation is ongoing.

Maldonado was sent to the custody of the United States Marshals without bail.

Agencies that participated in the investigation include the Southern Tier Regional Drug Task Force, the Sheriff’s office, the county SWAT team in conjunction with the Drug Enforcement Agency and the United States Postal Service.

Authorities continue to ask for the assistance of the public. If anyone observes narcotics related activity in their community they are encouraged to call either their local police or the Southern Tier Regional Drug Task Force at 1-800-344-8702.