A New York resident has been formally charged with multiple drug-related offenses following the discovery of over 100 kilograms (approximately 220 pounds) of suspected cocaine during a vehicle search in New Jersey, announced Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin. The arrest, carried out by the New Jersey State Police (NJSP) with assistance from the Division of Criminal Justice (DCJ), marks a significant disruption to regional drug trafficking.
Defendant and Charges
Miguel Ortiz, 34, from the Bronx, New York, faces criminal complaints including:
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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 vape cartridges and edibles
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Fourth-degree possession of THC vape cartridges and edibles
The most severe count, first-degree possession with intent to distribute cocaine, could lead to a prison sentence ranging from 10 to 20 years and a fine up to $200,000 under New Jersey law.
Details of the Incident
Authorities were conducting an ongoing narcotics investigation centered on a silver Honda Odyssey believed to be transporting illegal substances through New Jersey. Following the collection of intelligence, law enforcement secured a search warrant for the vehicle.
During the search, officers found roughly 100 kilograms of suspected cocaine along with THC vape cartridges and cannabis-infused edibles. The estimated street value of the cocaine is in the millions, highlighting the importance of this seizure in state anti-drug operations.
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Official Statements
Attorney General Platkin praised the effort, stating, “Removing dangerous drugs from our streets is essential to protecting public safety and improving life for our residents. The seizure of over 200 pounds of cocaine represents a major accomplishment by our law enforcement teams.”
Theresa L. Hilton, Director of the DCJ, underscored the ongoing nature of drug enforcement: “This arrest is part of a continuous fight against the influx of illegal drugs. Preventing such large shipments from reaching communities makes New Jersey safer for everyone.”
Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent of the NJSP, commented on the broader impact of cocaine trafficking: “This seizure is a critical win in our efforts to combat a drug that fuels addiction, violence, and suffering across our state.”
Potential Penalties
If found guilty on all counts, Ortiz faces the following possible sentences:
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First-degree charge: 10 to 20 years imprisonment; up to $200,000 fine
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Second-degree charge: 5 to 10 years imprisonment; up to $150,000 fine
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Third-degree charge: 3 to 5 years imprisonment; up to $15,000 fine
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Fourth-degree charge: Up to 18 months imprisonment; up to $10,000 fine
Case Status and Prosecution
The prosecution is being led by Deputy Attorney General Benjamin Forrest under the supervision of Deputy Bureau Chief Matthew Bernal and Bureau Chief Cassandra Montalto of the DCJ. The New Jersey State Police spearheaded the investigation and continue to follow additional leads.
As in all criminal cases, Ortiz is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
