Police obtained search warrants for the bowel movements of a suspected drug dealer in Weymouth on Monday after he allegedly swallowed 20 bags of heroin and cocaine.
Drug unit detectives were monitoring the area as part of an investigation when Rene Valencia, 24, arrived just before noon.
As detectives approached his vehicle, they said he began swallowing several small bags.
Valencia was transported to the hospital, where detectives recovered seven bags of heroin, 11 bags of cocaine and two bags of crack cocaine.
He was charged with possession with intent to distribute heroin and cocaine, conspiracy to violate the drug laws and drug violations near a park.
Lt. Rick Fuller said suspects swallowing drugs to get rid of evidence has become more common.
“Lately, it’s the way of trying to get away with it,” Fuller said. “The problem is they could die. ... There’s a lot of bad things that could happen.”
Valencia was arraigned Wednesday morning and was held on $3,500 cash bail. He is scheduled to return to court on March 2.
Allison Manning may be reached at amanning@ledger.com.
