NEWARK, N.J. – Sixteen individuals, including high-ranking members of the Latin Kings street gang, have been charged for their alleged roles in a massive drug trafficking organization that distributed fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine in Newark and surrounding areas.
According to court documents, the defendants, including Jaquan Beard, 25, Joseph Feliciano, 40, Carlos Lopez, 50, George Lopez, 49, Tyree Malone, 36, David Quinones, 29, and 12 others, each face one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, cocaine, fentanyl, and heroin. George Lopez, 49, is also charged with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine, possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.
Reynaldo Cruz, 27, is charged with possession with intent to distribute controlled substances and conspiracy to use and carry a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime.
The investigation, led by the Drug Enforcement Administration, revealed that the defendants distributed in excess of 50 grams of methamphetamine, 5 kilograms of cocaine, 40 grams of fentanyl, and 100 grams of heroin. Many of the defendants are members and associates of the Latin Kings street gang, and some members are known to possess firearms in connection with the DTO’s activities.
The charges carry significant penalties, including a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison for the methamphetamine and cocaine conspiracy count, and up to life in prison and a $10 million fine. George Lopez faces a separate maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison and a $1 million fine for possession with intent to distribute controlled substances.
U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger credited special agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Susan A. Gibson, for their work in this case. The investigation is ongoing, and additional charges are possible.
The defendants are scheduled to appear in federal court in Newark, with some already having been detained. Jaquan Beard, Joel Hernandez, George Lopez, and David Quinones are at large, while the others have been detained or are facing state charges.
The Latin Kings street gang has been a long-standing presence in New Jersey, with members and associates involved in various forms of organized crime, including narcotics trafficking, robbery, and extortion. The gang’s influence extends beyond the state, with ties to other gangs and organized crime groups nationwide.
As the investigation continues, Grimy Times will provide updates on the case and any new developments. In the meantime, residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement.
The charges against the defendants are a significant blow to the Latin Kings and their operations in New Jersey. However, the case serves as a reminder that the fight against organized crime is ongoing and that law enforcement will continue to pursue those who seek to profit from the suffering of others.
Related Federal Cases
- “Super” Wright Gets 8 Years for Heroin & Coke Ring · Maryland
- Pittsburgh Heroin Ring: Moorefield Gets 25 Years · Pennsylvania
- Trenton Heroin Ring: ‘Meech’ & ‘T-Rod’ Fall · New Jersey
- Elkins Drug Ring Busted: Workman Faces Machine Gun Rap · West Virginia
- Tran Syndicate Busted: Chemical Smuggling Ring Exposed · New Mexico
Key Facts
- State: New Jersey
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Violent Crime|Cybercrime|Public Corruption|Weapons|Human Trafficking|White Collar Crime|Organized Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
🔒 Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
Browse More
