NEWARK, N.J. - A Perth Amboy, New Jersey, man today admitted his role in a conspiracy to distribute approximately 1.5 kilograms of ethylone, a Schedule I controlled substance, Acting U.S. Attorney William E. Fitzpatrick announced.
Paul Hutchison, 35, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Kevin McNulty in Newark federal court to an information charging him with one count of conspiring to distribute ethylone.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
On Oct. 16, 2015, a lawful search of Hutchison’s residence in Perth Amboy revealed that he possessed approximately 1.5 kilograms of ethlyone, which he conspired with others to distribute in and around Middlesex County. Ethylone, sometimes referred to as “bath salts" or “molly," is an illegal synthetic drug that stimulates the central nervous system and can cause hallucinogenic effects.
The conspiracy charge to which Hutchison pleaded guilty carries a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison and a $1 million fine. Sentencing is scheduled for Oct. 16, 2017.
Acting U.S. Attorney Fitzpatrick credited special agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), under the direction of Charge Carl J. Kotowski in Newark, with the investigation.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan M. Peck of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Organized Crime/Drug Enforcement Task Force Unit.
Defense Counsel: Bruce Regenstreich Esq., New York
Source: U.S. Department of Justice, Office of the United States Attorneys
