A federal grand jury in New Jersey has indicted three men for their alleged involvement in a drug trafficking organization operating in Newark. U.S. Attorney John Giordano announced the 12-count indictment against George Lopez, Reinaldo Cruz, and Joel Hernandez, who are accused of distributing fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine.
The indictment charges all three men with conspiracy to distribute these drugs. Additionally, Lopez faces charges for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine, illegal possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon, and possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Cruz is charged with similar offenses related to fentanyl and cocaine distribution, while Hernandez faces charges related to methamphetamine and cocaine distribution and firearm possession.
According to court documents, Cruz and Hernandez distributed drugs on behalf of the organization in Essex and Union Counties. Lopez allegedly provided advice from jail regarding drug supplies while receiving cash payments through his wife. Both Lopez and Cruz are associated with the Latin Kings street gang.
The investigation involved wiretaps, surveillance operations, controlled purchases, seizures of narcotics, and analysis of telephone records. Authorities revealed that the organization distributed significant quantities of methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl.
If convicted on the methamphetamine and cocaine conspiracy count, each defendant faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison with a potential life sentence and a $10 million fine. Other charges carry varying penalties including fines up to $5 million or $1 million depending on the charge specifics.
U.S. Attorney Giordano credited multiple law enforcement agencies for their roles in the investigation leading to these charges. These include special agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration under Special Agent Cheryl Ortiz's direction; local police departments; state police SWAT teams; federal agencies like Homeland Security Investigations; among others.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Eli Jacobs and John Mezzanotte represent the government in this case. It is important to note that all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
