BUFFALO, N.Y. — U.S. Attorney William Hochul says 58-year old Theresa Anderson was the head of a drug trafficking organization that virtually controlled two streets on the city’s east side for more than a decade.

"The leader of the organization is alleged to be Theresa Anderson, who is named as the head of a criminal organization comprised of her immediate family and friends," said Hochul.

According to the federal indictment, Anderson sold crack cocaine on the city's east side for 12 years between 2000 and 2012. The indictment alleges Anderson solicited the help of several family members to help her run the operation.

"The picture that emerged is one of Theresa Anderson and her family members, a son, two daughters, and a granddaughter a family that was engaged in a family business of drug trafficking," said Lt. Martin McKee of the New York State Police.

Hochul says Anderson was able to control the sale of crack cocaine in the neighborhood by purchasing properties; nine houses in all, three on Swinburne, and just two blocks away on Deshler, another six houses owned by the alleged drug family.

“They ran several houses, they had several people that worked in those houses they operated on a day-to-day basis," said Kaspryzcyck.

"The fact, that some of the properties were strategically located not just on Swinburne but Deshler Street. The multitude of properties, nine on these two streets alone, all contributed to the ability of this organization to work that long" said Hochul.

Anderson and the eight others are accused of operating a continuing criminal enterprise, conspiracy, operating a narcotic manufacturing premise, and narcotics trafficking.

If convicted, she could face 20 years to life in prison and a $10 million fine. All the properties would also be forfieted to the government if Anderson is convicted.