SANFORD — Two Sanford men were arrested Thursday in a crack cocaine investigation by the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency York County District Task Force and Sanford Police.

Ryan Benoit, 23, and Joshua Downs, 18, both of Sanford, are facing drug trafficking charges as a result of the investigation.

According to the Maine Department of Public Safety, agents from the MDEA conducted an investigation into the distribution of crack cocaine by Benoit in Sanford and over the past three weeks conducted undercover purchases of crack cocaine from him at various locations in Sanford. Downs accompanied Benoit during one of these transactions, police said.

On March 27, at approximately 3 p.m., Benoit was arrested in the area of the Mid-Town Mall in Sanford as he was delivering crack cocaine to an undercover agent, police reported. Benoit attempted to resist arrest by fleeing on foot, but was taken into custody a short distance away by members of the Southern Maine Special Response Team who were assisting agents.

Benoit was in possession of 8 grams of crack cocaine as well as $1,900 in cash that was seized as suspected drug proceeds, police said. The estimated street value of the crack cocaine was $1,200.

Benoit was arrested and charged with one count in unlawful trafficking in a Schedule W drug, (crack cocaine), Class B, and violation of conditions of release.

At the same time as Benoit’s arrest, agents served a search warrant at 47 Theriault St., Sanford, the residence of Downs. The search revealed evidence of drug trafficking to include 20 ounces of processed marijuana, digital scales and marijuana plants, police reported. Downs was arrested and charged with unlawful trafficking in a Schedule Z drug (marijuana).

Both men were transported to the York County Jail by Sanford Police. Benoit, who was already free on two sets of bail conditions for other criminal charges, was denied bail. Downs’ bail was set at $100 cash.

The investigation is continuing and additional charges are expected. During this investigation and arrests, agents were assisted by the Sanford Police Department, the Wells Police Department, members of the Southern Maine Special Response Team and members of the New England HIDTA.