Marlborough Resident Pleads Not Guilty to Cocaine Trafficking Charges

In Marlborough, a resident named Joseph Urbinstando has pleaded not guilty to allegations of dealing cocaine in multiple communities. The arrest took place at Urbinstando’s home on Briarwood Lane following an extensive investigation conducted jointly by local, state, and federal authorities.

Initiated in January by the Massachusetts State Police gang unit and the MetroWest Drug Task Force, the investigation targeted Urbinstando for his alleged involvement in cocaine trafficking within Marlborough and Worcester. This collaborative effort involved detectives from Framingham, Natick, Ashland, and Marlborough.

Tuesday’s arrest was the result of coordinated efforts between the drug task force, the gang unit, the Marlborough Police Department, Northborough Police Department, Worcester Police Department, and the federal Department of Homeland Security. Multiple search warrants were executed across Marlborough and Northborough.

During the searches, law enforcement seized a significant amount of contraband, including 1 kilogram (2.2 pounds) of cocaine and $200,000 in cash. According to estimates from the federal Department of Justice, the street value of a kilogram of cocaine is approximately $30,000.

Urbinstando faces charges of trafficking in cocaine exceeding 200 grams. At his arraignment in Westborough District Court, he pleaded not guilty and was subsequently remanded to custody on $750,000 bail. Should he secure bail, Urbinstando is subject to wearing a GPS monitoring device and house arrest conditions.

His defense attorney, Michael James Gilliatt, has refrained from offering commentary on the case. Urbinstando’s next court appearance is scheduled for March 5 for a probable cause hearing, where further legal proceedings will unfold.

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About The Author

Jerry Filmore

Jerry Filmore is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of What’s Up Worcester News, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization community news outlet dedicated to informing, engaging, and empowering Worcester through accessible, accurate, and inclusive storytelling. With over a decade of experience in management, community organizing, and media production, Jerry leads with a passion for amplifying local voices and spotlighting the people, places, and stories that make Worcester Massachusetts thrive.
When he’s not producing new shows or organizing community initiatives like Woo CommuniTree or Worcester Voices: Community Awards & Celebration Night, you can find Jerry collaborating with local creatives, mentoring young reporters, and continuing to build bridges across Worcester’s neighborhoods.

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