Accused "Op. Deception" dealer released

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) - The man state police say was the ringleader in a lucrative drug operation, is now free awaiting trial.

Albert Hamlin, who was arrested along with five other people in "Operation Deception" is no longer at the Adult Correctional Institution, according to corrections officials. A spokesperson said Hamlin was released following a court hearing Thursday.

Target 12 checked on Hamlin's case file at Providence District Court only to find it has been sealed by a judge.

A spokesperson for the Rhode Island Attorney General's office said they can’t comment on the development.

State Police investigators referred to Hamlin as the "main target" of the drug sting. Affidavits reveal state police began a wiretap on Hamlin's cell phone back in November. The case then mushroomed to implicate three Providence police officers.

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Also charged in the case: Providence narcotics detective Joseph Colanduono, Hamlin's brother and Providence patrolman Robert Hamlin, Sergeant Stephen Gonsalves as well as Jameson Hassett and alleged cocaine supplier Khalid Mason .

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Four other defendants still remain behind bars.

Each defendant has pleaded not guilty. Gonsalves is free awaiting his arraignment.

twhite@wpri.com