According to authorities, they have arrested 29 people in connection with a massive drug ring in New Jersey. Allegedly, the accused individuals were participating in a criminal enterprise that involved the trafficking of cocaine and heroin across multiple New Jersey towns.
Police investigations into the drug ring’s activities were initially triggered by an increase in shootings in multiple New Jersey towns. The investigation was code-named “Operation Lights Out” and police launched it early this year following shootings that happened in Neptune Township, Asbury Park and Long Branch.
A total of 32 people were charged in the operation, and three are still at large. The Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office said that the accused individuals participated in criminal groups that “peddle drugs, unlawfully possess and transfer firearms and inflict violence.” The county prosecutor said that the arrested individuals were part of the Bloods street gang, specifically the G-Shine set.
The arrested individuals have been charged with various criminal violations, including drug distribution, racketeering, conspiracy to possess and distribute drugs, illegal gun possession and illegal gun sales. During their investigations, police say that the organization was distributing approximately 150 to 200 grams of crack cocaine weekly and approximately 250 packets of heroin weekly. They also say that they seized two semi-automatic handguns, 35 heroin bricks, over 200 grams of cocaine, approximately $14,000 in cash and three cars.
Were you accused of drug crimes in New Jersey? Just because you were accused of a crime does not mean that you will be found guilty and punished for the alleged offenses. Every person accused of a criminal act will have the right to defend him or herself against the charges in court.
Source: patch.com, “29 Gang Members Arrested In Major New Jersey Drug Bust,” Sep. 13, 2017
