Operation Deception history of events

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) - The arrests in Operation Deception began in March, but police actually started investigating the drug-dealing allegations, late last year.

Wiretaps of the suspects began in November 2009, bringing to light the details and players in this widespread drug probe.

March 4, 2010: State police lay out a mountain of evidence in an undercover drug dealing investigation dubbed 'Operation Deception.' The same day troopers arrest six men including three Providence Police officers.

• In-Depth Coverage: Operation Deception

November 2009:  The investigation began when a judge signed a court order allowing the wiretap of two cell phones owned by alleged ring leader Albert Hamlin.

December 2009: Affidavits show state police intercepted a phone call from Providence Narcotics Detective Joseph Colanduono and Sgt. Stephen Gonsalves leading them to an alleged drug deal between Gonsalves and Hamlin in a Warwick parking lot.

Investigators said just before that start of 2010, they recorded another call between Hamlin, Colanduono and Gonsalves, allegedly setting up a cocaine drop-off to Gonsavles' Providence home.

Capt. David Neill said, "Albert Hamlin worked in conjunction with the Providence Police officers, to ensure his protection and to further facilitate the distribution of cocaine and controlled substances."

January 2010: Court records showed state police videotaped an alleged drug deal in Albert Hamlin's Providence driveway. The documents state, Providence patrolmen and Hamlin's brother, Robert Hamlin was there at the time.

• Khalid Mason was also charged, accused of supplying cocaine
• Jameson Hassett was charged with conspiring to sell cocaine
• Bartender, Scott Lamont, was charged with attempting to buy cocaine from Albert Hamlin.

Colanduono, Mason and both Hamlin brothers remain behind bars. All seven original suspects will face a Superior Court judge in the coming months.