Two individuals arraigned for large-scale drug trafficking incident

NORTH ADAMS, Mass. (WWLP) – Two individuals were arraigned in Northern Berkshire District Court in connection with an incident involving trespassing and trafficking of cocaine and crack cocaine on March 22nd.

Kayla Stojda, whose address is currently unknown, and Joseph Mathews of 14 Willow Street, apt. #5, Adams, were both charged with trafficking in cocaine, 200 grams or more, as well as trespassing after notice.

The Commonwealth requested $2,500 bail for Stojda, but the court imposed $250,000 bail, taking into account bail recorded on underlying cases. Meanwhile, Mathews received $200,000 bail without prejudice, with his bail revoked on underlying trafficking charges.

The incident occurred on March 22nd around 9:19 pm when members of the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) police department were conducting routine checks of the MCLA campus. Unusual activity was observed at 228 East Main Street, a private property adjacent to an MCLA building. Upon identifying himself, Mathews was found in the building’s vestibule and was informed by police that he was trespassing. Despite warnings, Mathews refused to leave, prompting MCLA police to seek assistance from the North Adams Police Department.

At approximately 9:31 pm, officers from both MCLA and North Adams police entered the building, where they found Mathews attempting to flee. He was arrested, though he exhibited agitation and non-cooperation with police instructions. Meanwhile, additional officers discovered Stojda in the same area and took her into custody without resistance. Stojda was found carrying a backpack, which she claimed was not hers. However, upon inspection, officers discovered a significant quantity of cocaine and crack cocaine inside the bag.

In total, Mathews and Stojda were found in possession of approximately 1,029 grams of cocaine and crack cocaine, valued between $61,740 to $102,900.