3 more arrests in Operation Mobbed Up

SCITUATE, R.I. (WPRI) - Rhode Island State Police have made three more arrests in the organized crime investigation "Operation Mobbed Up," bringing the total of arrests made so far to 21.

One of the men picked up in the latest round of arrests is a high-profile mob associate, according to State Police.

"Domenic Lombardi, Jr. is a historic figure in Rhode Island. He's been around," said Lt. Col. Steven O'Donnell.

Lombardi, 74, of West Warwick owns real estate in Rhode Island, but was arrested while on vacation in Florida. He is charged with several counts of selling drugs, as well as conspiracy and maintaining common nuisance. 

State Police said Lombardi sold prescription drugs from his business, Lombardi Realty in West Warwick. They said he also owns a plaza which contains a drug recovery center.

Lombardi, who has a lengthy criminal record, including arson, was ordered held pending extradition proceedings.

Two other men were also arrested in Rhode Island Monday night. Troopers took Steven Wahl, 46, of Tiverton into custody at the Welcome Arnold Shelter in Cranston. He is facing racketeering and several drug charges. He was selling prescription drugs out of the Valley St. Flea Market, Troopers said.

Devon McDonald, 23, of Central Falls is charged with larceny. Troopers said at the direction of Nicholas Pari and Lloyd Morse, McDonald stole catalytic converters out of cars, which where then sold for cash.

The 18-month long investigation initially revolved around the Valley St. Flea Market in Providence.

According to investigators, mob associates exchanged counterfeit purses and shoes for drugs and guns. During the course of the probe, which involved undercover police and wiretaps, investigators logged hundreds of transactions. They say mob associate Nicholas "Nicky" Pari, with the help of flea market owner Lloyd  Morse, ran the operation.

During that investigation, Troopers said they also uncovered an illegal gambling and drug enterprise being run out of Dyer Discount on Dyer Ave. in Cranston. They said that operation was run by reputed mob enforcer Gerald "Gerry" Tillinghast.