Authorities recently targeted an alleged drug ring in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. A total of 15 people were indicted for alleged drug crimes and racketeering in the massive cocaine and heroin bust.
Prosecutors claim that a 34-year-old man was running the drug operations out of multiple homes in Puerto Rico and Salem. Allegedly, the man was bringing 20 to 30 kilograms of cocaine and heroin into North Philadelphia and Camden on a monthly basis. Authorities said that the man has been “one of the biggest heroin suppliers in Camden and North Philadelphia.” Authorities further noted that the regions have become major drug distribution hubs for that reason — especially related to heroin and fentanyl-laced heroin.
The arrested individuals were men and women ranging in ages between 22 and 44. The arrests came as a result of a seven-month investigations code-named “Operation Inferno.” The investigation specifically targeted drug dealing activity happening in the Camden area. According to authorities, two of the accused individuals in the case have pleaded guilty to less severe charges relating to conspiracy.
In carrying out the arrests, police say they found 10 kilograms of heroin and cocaine hidden beneath the seat of a vehicle. They also found another 4 kilograms of cocaine that had been sent to Camden from Puerto Rico via the mail.
As with all criminal matters, the arrested individuals in the case will have the legal right to an attorney and a criminal defense. Furthermore, they will not be convicted or punished for their alleged crimes until — and only if — the prosecution proves them to be guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Source: nj.com, “15 indicted in massive N.J. heroin, cocaine ring bust,” S. P. Sullivan, Oct. 17, 2017
