TRENTON, N.J. — A large-scale drug bust along a New Jersey roadway has led to multiple felony charges against a Bronx resident after police discovered a massive quantity of illegal narcotics, authorities announced this week.
Miguel Ortiz, 34, was taken into custody by New Jersey State Police after troopers executed a search warrant on a silver Honda Odyssey suspected of being used to smuggle drugs. Inside, investigators uncovered an estimated 100 kilograms of suspected cocaine, along with THC-infused vape cartridges and cannabis edibles.
Officials say the vehicle had been under surveillance as part of a broader narcotics investigation. The drugs seized represent a street value in the millions and are believed to have been en route for distribution across the region.
Charges Filed
Ortiz is facing the following criminal charges:
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First-degree possession with intent to distribute cocaine
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Third-degree possession of cocaine
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Second-degree possession with intent to distribute THC products
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Fourth-degree possession of THC vape cartridges and edibles
If convicted on the most serious charge, Ortiz could serve up to 20 years in state prison and face fines reaching $200,000. The other charges also carry substantial penalties, including multiple years in prison and additional fines.
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Law Enforcement Reactions
New Jersey Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin praised the seizure as a substantial blow to regional drug trafficking operations.
“By removing over 200 pounds of suspected cocaine from circulation, we’ve prevented these dangerous drugs from hitting our streets,” said Platkin.
Theresa Hilton, Director of the Division of Criminal Justice, echoed the sentiment:
“This is a reminder that our agencies remain vigilant in disrupting drug pipelines into New Jersey. Such seizures save lives.”
Colonel Patrick Callahan of the NJ State Police emphasized the social harm tied to the cocaine trade:
“Beyond its street value, this drug fuels addiction and violence. Taking 100 kilograms off the streets makes our neighborhoods safer.”
Legal Process & Investigation
The charges against Ortiz were brought forward through the efforts of Deputy Attorney General Benjamin Forrest, with supervision from DCJ’s leadership team. The case remains under active investigation, with authorities indicating that additional leads are being pursued.
Ortiz is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Stay tuned for further developments on this case.
