Twenty-nine members and associates of a Jersey City-based drug trafficking organization were arrested this week on fentanyl and cocaine trafficking and firearms offenses, U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer announced on Apr. 22.
The arrests follow a long-term investigation involving multiple law enforcement agencies at the federal, state, and local levels. The case highlights ongoing efforts to combat violent crime and the distribution of dangerous drugs in New Jersey communities.
According to authorities, the defendants are accused of operating a large-scale enterprise that distributed significant quantities of fentanyl and cocaine in areas around Myrtle Avenue and Mallory Avenue in Jersey City. Law enforcement used wiretaps, controlled purchases, surveillance, and phone record analysis during the investigation. On Apr. 22, search warrants led to the seizure of approximately 15 kilograms of suspected fentanyl, three kilograms of suspected cocaine, nineteen firearms, high-capacity magazines, a bulletproof vest, $160,000 in cash, as well as other items related to drug distribution.
“These defendants operated a large-scale drug trafficking enterprise that distributed massive quantities of dangerous drugs like fentanyl and cocaine. That ended this week,” Frazer said. “Through the incredible collaborative work of our federal, state, and local partners we arrested 29 ... seized kilogram quantities ...and took numerous firearms off the street.”
HSI Newark Special Agent in Charge Michael S. McCarthy said: “Homeland Security Investigations Newark remains steadfast in its commitment to protect New Jersey communities from criminal organizations trafficking deadly drugs such as cocaine ... Today’s operation marks a decisive step forward ... New Jersey is safer as a result.” ATF Special Agent Beau Kolodka added: “These arrests send a clear message that ATF ... will not tolerate the dangerous combination of drug trafficking and firearms.”
The charges include conspiracy to distribute controlled substances with penalties up to 40 years’ imprisonment for some counts; possession with intent to distribute carries up to 20 years; firearm possession by felons can result in up to 15 years’ imprisonment.
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of New Jersey is part of the U.S. Department of Justice according to its official website. The office advances community safety through law enforcement coordination across statewide offices located in Newark, Trenton and Camden according to its official website. It staffs about 170 attorneys and support personnel who prosecute federal crimes—including terrorism—and represent civil matters throughout New Jersey according to its official website.
Authorities emphasized that all charges are accusations at this stage; defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
