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In South Boston, drug crackdown nets 13 arrests

‘Targeted efforts’ made after woman killed in her home

Boston police investigated a parking lot at East 4th Street by M and N streets in South Boston. David L. Ryan/Globe Staff/Globe Staff

Boston Police are cracking down on the illegal drug trade in South Boston following the fatal stabbing of a 67-year-old grandmother by a man who allegedly broke into her home, hoping to find fishing gear he could steal and then sell to feed his drug habit.

According to Suffolk District Attorney Daniel F. Conley’s office, 13 people have been arraigned in South Boston Municipal Court this week on charges of possession and/or distribution of substances that include methadone, heroin, cocaine, and a variety of prescription drugs.

Boston police spokeswoman Elaine Driscoll said 20 people have been arrested on drug charges since April 16.

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“The drug control unit is conducting targeted efforts in South Boston as the result of recent incidents including the homicide of Ms. Coyne and concerns raised by the community,’’ Driscoll said in a prepared statement.

Suffolk prosecutors allege that Timothy Kostka broke into 67-year-old Barbara Coyne’s home on Patriots Day in order to steal high-end fishing equipment. When Kostka encountered Coyne, he allegedly stabbed her to death.

Before the stabbing, Kostka allegedly asked a contact where he could sell fishing gear. Authorities allege that Kostka placed a call to buy heroin after the attack.

“These efforts will continue for the foreseeable future,’’ Driscoll said.

Police Commissioner Edward F. Davis is expected to meet with South Boston residents on Monday night to further discuss ways to address public safety issues and quality of life concerns, Driscoll said.


Amanda Cedrone can be reached at acedrone@globe.com.