A Lehigh County, Pennsylvania Democratic official was among nearly 20 individuals arrested as part of a significant drug investigation spanning several years and states.
On Thursday, the Lehigh County Drug Task Force, aided by the Bethlehem Police and other agencies, apprehended Commissioner Zach Cole-Borghi at Bethlehem City Hall, where he served as an open records officer. He faces charges related to possession of marijuana and its distribution. He was released after posting a $50,000 bond.
Commissioner Cole-Borghi, who secured an uncontested primary win for the third district earlier this year, was one of 22 people detained in this operation. Lehigh County District Attorney Gavin Holihan mentioned that inquiries into these drug ring allegations commenced three years ago, expanding into states like Illinois, New York, and Wisconsin.
At a recent press conference, Holihan described the investigations as widespread, highlighting arrests made across multiple states, including Chicago and Wisconsin. He mentioned outstanding warrants for individuals in various Pennsylvania counties and New York, calling it a “broad conspiracy.”
Furthermore, law enforcement officials have reportedly confiscated substantial evidence in the case, including cash, cryptocurrency accounts, over 2,000 pounds of marijuana, liquid cocaine, and more than $100,000 worth of MDMA. Additionally, at least 25 firearms were seized and dismantled by a specialized lab team.
Michelle Cichocki, the director of Bethlehem Human Resources, confirmed on Friday that Cole-Borghi is no longer employed by the city.
The exact nature of Cole-Borghi’s involvement in the alleged drug trafficking activities remains unclear, as Holihan refrained from commenting on specifics, citing the ongoing investigation.
Reactions from local officials ranged from dismay to concern. Bethlehem City Council member Brian Callahan referred to the incident as “disastrous news,” mirroring comments made by colleague Grace Clumpy Smith.
Although Lehigh County Executive Phil Armstrong stated that Cole-Borghi has not resigned from his committee position, reports indicate that without a judge’s order, his name remains on the ballot for the upcoming November vote.
In response to the arrest, Cole-Borghi’s Republican challenger, Jacqueline Rivera, emphasized the importance of integrity and trust within community leadership, asserting that Lehigh County residents deserve representatives they can rely on.
As of Tuesday morning, Cole-Borghi’s profile on the County Commissioner’s website remained up, although it lacked biographical details, stating that these would “appear soon.”
Armstrong indicated that the Lehigh County community can expect continued updates as more information comes to light. Requests for comment from Cole-Borghi went unanswered.
