It seemed like a sweet arrangement: Instead of confining his drug deals to the back of the restaurant’s parking lot like most other dealers, a drug dealer in Epping, New Hampshire, decided to run his business straight from the drive-through of a local Burger King.
On some level, it probably made sense. Drug dealers have a lot of down time on their hands and sitting around a parking lot too long can raise suspicions. Plus, buyers may be a little intimidated making their deals in a dark spot out of sight of others.
So the enterprising young drug dealer came up with a solution: He went to work for the fast food company, which got him a paycheck for his down time. He then made his drug sales using a two-step code word process. Buyers wanting to score would pull into the drive-through ask if “Nasty Boy” was working, which was apparently the dealer’s nickname. If they were told he was, they’d ask for “fries, extra crispy” with their order.
The actual exchange of money for drugs was handled at the pick-up window. The drugs were delivered in a coffee cup, separate from whatever food was sold.
The problem with the system is that word got around a little too well, and police received numerous tips about the deals. In the end, they arrested not only “Nasty Boy” but his 19-year-old shift manager, who took the order. Although she claims she had no idea that the drug sales were happening, police believe that she was aware of the coded language and therefore assisted the drug dealer in his operation.
Consequently, the young woman is now charged with conspiracy to distribute a controlled drug. The dealer is charged with possession of a controlled drug with intent to distribute.
While it’s still too early to tell how this case will play out, this is an example of how someone can get caught up in a drug bust even if they never touch either the drugs or the money that’s changing hands. Drug trafficking crimes of any sort are serious felonies and can subject you to mandatory minimum sentences and more.
If you get charged with any sort of drug trafficking crime, it’s wise to contact an attorney as soon as possible.
Source: Union Leader, “‘Fries extra crispy’ special orders serve up a drive-thru drug bust at Epping Burger King,” Jason Schreiber, Jan. 25, 2017
