A Palmerton man has been charged in the shipping of illegal controlled substances dating back to last year.

According to the affidavit of probable cause filed by state police in the case against Matthew Clements-Tokanets:

On June 20, state police and the state Attorney General’s Office began a narcotics trafficking investigation.

Information in a tip indicated that Clements-Tokanets, 32, was utilizing the Telegram app.

A review of the group indicated a significant sales of narcotics and controlled substances.

On the same date, a U.S. Postal Service inspector conducted a search related to some of the shipping labels seen on the Telegram account. Records indicated packages being shipped to/from the 500 block of Delaware Avenue, Apt. G, along with the use of the Palmerton post office and Schnecksville post office.

Record searches were conducted and Clements-Tokanets was identified as residing at Apt. G or Apt. E, Palmerton, with his girlfriend, Cari Nalesnik.

Record searches also indicated Clements-Tokanets originally resided with family in Schnecksville.

Upon review of all postings on “Packs N Racks,” it appeared that the majority of drug sales were through USPS, however, some communication did appear to be in-person deals.

From June 21 through July 12, communication was established by authorities via Telegram app.

Investigators learned that “Packs N Racks” has been engaged in the shipping of illegal controlled substances since at least July 2022.

On Friday, authorities executed a search warrant for the residence in the 500 block of Delaware Avenue, Apt. E, Palmerton, and various associated banks/online banking and online payment accounts.

Clements-Tokanets was taken into custody, transported to the Lehighton state police barracks where he told police that he was involved in the online drug trafficking groups and facilitating the distribution of drugs, according to authorities.

Clements-Tokanets faces a number of drug-related charges, including two counts of manufacture, delivery, or possession with intent to manufacture or deliver.

Clements-Tokanets is in the Carbon County Correctional Facility in lieu of $250,000 straight bail, and scheduled to have a preliminary hearing Nov. 22 before District Judge William J. Kissner of Palmerton.