An investigation by the Knox County Sheriff’s Office surrounding how and why a man carrying contraband drugs entered homes in Warren, April 26, has led to the arrest of two wanted individuals who were believed to be involved in other area crimes.

During the initial investigation, information on the whereabouts of the wanted individuals was gained, according to Sheriff Patrick Polky. 

Knox County Sheriff’s Office Detectives had arrest warrants in connection with an alleged armed robbery incident that occurred on March 27, 2023 on Forest Road in Warren. 

Due to the violent nature of the alleged crimes, additional law enforcement officers from the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency and the Knox County Sheriff’s Office Canine Unit were called in to assist with executing the arrest warrants at a residence on the Camden Road in Warren.

Hector E. Diaz-Mejia, 23, of the Dominican Republic, was arrested on a warrant for Robbery, Criminal Threatening, Assault, and Theft. Diaz-Mejia is currently being held at the Knox County Jail with bail set at $25,000 cash.

Dashleen Lugo, 29, of Dorchester, Massachusetts, was arrested on a warrant for Robbery, Criminal Threatening, Assault, and Theft. Lugo is currently being held at the Knox County Jail with bail set at $25,000 cash.

During the execution of the arrest warrants, additional criminal activity was observed, according to Polky. The Knox County Sheriff’s Office, Maine Drug Enforcement Agency and United States Border Patrol are conducting additional investigations.

“This investigation has been complex and fluid and has led us in several different directions,” said Polky. “To me, this is an example of the great communication and collaboration that exists between law enforcement agencies and has led to the non-violent detention and apprehension of some dangerous individuals. It also highlights the importance of mutual aid and arrest agreements between law enforcement agencies; the ability to increase the size of a response, with a single request, significantly increases our chances of resolving incidents without violence.”