A Passaic County man was charged on April 23 with trafficking fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine base, and firearms offenses after what authorities describe as one of the largest drug seizures in New Jersey history, U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer said.
Authorities allege that Nankel Stuardo Solorzano, 46, of Clifton trafficked large quantities of narcotics from a residential apartment complex. Law enforcement arrested Solorzano on April 17 while he was attempting to access his stash following two drug deals. Subsequent searches uncovered over 40 kilograms of fentanyl, approximately 52 kilograms of methamphetamine, more than two kilograms of cocaine base, four firearms—including a stolen handgun and an AK-47-style rifle—and various ammunition and magazines.
“These charges send a clear message to those who seek to profit by flooding our communities with dangerous drugs: our Office will find you, no matter where you hide or how sophisticated you believe your operation to be. This investigation reflects our commitment to shutting down drug trafficking operations and keeping the people of New Jersey safe from the violence and destruction they cause,” Frazer said.
Solorzano faces several federal charges including possession with intent to distribute controlled substances—which each carry a maximum penalty of life imprisonment—a mandatory minimum penalty of ten years’ imprisonment for some counts, and fines up to $10 million. The firearms-related counts carry additional penalties.
The case is being investigated by special agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New York Task Force Division Group T-24 under Special Agent in Charge Christopher Roberts; DEA Charlotte Enforcement Group 2; the New York Police Department; the New York State Police; and the Clifton Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Ferrara is representing the government alongside colleagues from relevant units in Newark.
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of New Jersey prosecutes federal crimes and represents the United States in civil matters across the state according to its official website. The office advances community safety through law enforcement coordination and crime prevention programs according to its official website, staffs about 170 attorneys and support personnel statewide according to its official website, maintains offices in Newark, Trenton, and Camden according to its official website, handles both criminal prosecutions and civil cases according to its official website, coordinates with federal agencies on crimes such as terrorism and public corruption while tracing its establishment back to 1789 according to its official website. Alumni include federal judges and U.S. senators according to its official website.
Frazer said narcotics like fentanyl combined with illegal firearms "are a deadly combination that poisons our communities and fuels violence." He also noted that all charges are accusations at this stage: "The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty."
