Responding to complaints about street-corner cocaine sales in Catonsville, Baltimore County police conducted pre-dawn raids yesterday and arrested more than a dozen people on drug charges.

Most of the suspects were charged with drug distribution or possession. Community activists said they believe the arrests will put a dent in the local cocaine trade.

"I think the community will feel more secure, especially around the holidays," said Charlotte Wood, president of Concerned Citizens of Catonsville. "And once the residents see that the information they provided has had a positive impact, I think they'll continue to help police."

Police began the investigation into drug trafficking in the Winters Lane neighborhood in early September after residents complained about the problem, said Wilkens Precinct Capt. Stephen P. Vaughan.

"This is a clear indication of the results of police and the community working together," police Chief Terrance B. Sheridan said at a news conference at the precinct.

Thirteen houses and apartments - most in the Catonsville area - were searched just before dawn. Police said they recovered small quantities of crack cocaine and marijuana, drug paraphernalia, cash and liquor stolen from a nearby tavern Sunday.

Police did not have an estimate of the value of the drugs.

Thirteen people were arrested and arrest warrants have been issued for two others suspected of selling drugs in the Winters Lane area, police said. The suspects, who live in Catonsville, Woodlawn, Pikesville and Baltimore, ranged in age from teen-agers to a 50-year-old man, police said.

Police said they do not believe the suspects sold drugs as part of a ring, however.

To guard against the drug sales starting again, Sgt. Scott M. Huff said, detectives will monitor the release dates for suspects who are jailed and will continue to respond to citizen complaints.