Monmouth County authorities recently dismantled an alleged drug distribution network that they say was operating out of a number of residences in Monmouth and Middlesex counties. After a 10-month investigation, 20 people were listed in a 136-count indictment that includes a vast array of drug charges.
According to acting Monmouth County Prosecutor Christopher Gramiccioni, the drug distribution operation was responsible for purchasing, packaging, and selling heroin and cocaine throughout the Bayshore area of Monmouth County. The investigation into this network referred to as “Operation Family Tides,” pointed to the Cliffwood section of Aberdeen as a critical recruitment location for those willing to package heroin and cocaine for distribution. Investigators also discovered two apartments which they suspect were serving as drug production facilities, one of which is in Woodbridge, while the other is located in Perth Amboy.
Ultimately, four men were identified as the alleged leaders of the drug trafficking ring; they include 34-year-old Gregory “IA” Moore, 38-year-old Terrence “T9” Brown, and 30-year-old Edward “Head” Guttridge II, all of whom are from Cliffwood, as well as 37-year-old East Orange resident Halee Wing. These four are now facing charges for leading a narcotics trafficking network, conspiracy, possession of heroin and cocaine with intent to distribute, and heroin and cocaine distribution.
Among the others included in the 136-count indictment are individuals ranging in age from 21 to 44, who hail from towns such as Old Bridge, Keyport, Matawan, Keansburg, and Woodbridge. The other charges issued in the indictment include: maintaining or operating a controlled dangerous substance production facility, conspiracy, drug possession with intent to distribute, and drug distribution. Notably, 7 other people were also charged as alleged drug purchasers; each of them is now facing charges for drug possession and conspiracy to possess drugs.
Although all of the aforementioned offenses are considered serious, those charged with leading a narcotics trafficking network are exposed to the most severe penalties. Under section N.J.S.A. 2C:35-3 of the New Jersey Criminal Code, this is a crime of the first degree, with an extended sentencing range. Although first-degree crimes are typically punishable by a term of incarceration ranging from 10 to 20 years, those convicted of leading narcotics trafficking network must serve a minimum of 25 years in New Jersey State Prison before becoming eligible for parole. They may also be fined up to $750,000 or five-times the estimated street value of the controlled dangerous substance associated with the offense. Consulting with a knowledgeable attorney is essential when facing punishments of this magnitude.
For additional information pertaining to this case, access the following article: 20 people indicted as part of Bayshore heroin ring