NEWARK, NJ – Another cog in the machine of Newark’s drug trade is off the streets. Ernest Valentine, 32, known on the streets as “Bop,” was sentenced to 112 months in federal prison today for his role in a crack-cocaine distribution ring run by the New Jersey set of the Grape Street Crips. The sentence was handed down by U.S. District Judge Jose L. Linares.
Valentine previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute 28 grams or more of crack-cocaine, admitting to obtaining the drug from higher-ups within the gang. According to court documents, the New Jersey Grape Street Crips held a tight grip on drug trafficking and other criminal activity around Newark’s 6th Avenue and North 5th Street. Valentine wasn’t just a runner; he was part of a network that took orders for “thousands of clips” of crack via a dedicated cell phone – a chillingly efficient operation.
The investigation revealed a deeply entrenched criminal enterprise. Alongside Valentine, authorities identified key figures including Hakeem Vanderhall, a/k/a “Keem,” a/k/a “Sugar Bear”; Eric Concepcion, a/k/a “Eddie Arroyo,” a/k/a “E-Wax,” a/k/a “Wax”; and Rashan Washington, a/k/a “Shoota.” These individuals allegedly formed the leadership core of the operation, feeding Valentine and others the drugs to push on the streets.
But the trade wasn’t just about dope. The Grape Street Crips in this area operated with a frightening level of protection. Court documents detail the use of “community guns” – firearms readily available to gang members for territorial disputes and intimidation. Law enforcement seized a frightening arsenal during the investigation: a .410 caliber assault rifle, a .45 caliber Thompson semi-automatic carbine, a 7.62 caliber assault rifle, and numerous other semi-automatic handguns. This wasn’t just a drug operation; it was a heavily armed power grab.
Acting U.S. Attorney William E. Fitzpatrick credited a multi-agency effort for bringing Valentine to justice. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the FBI, the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, Newark Police, and the Essex County Sheriff’s Office all played a role in the investigation, which fell under the umbrella of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) and the FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force. This case highlights the need for continued cooperation to dismantle these criminal organizations.
Valentine’s sentence isn’t just about the prison time. Judge Linares also imposed five years of supervised release upon his eventual release. Stacy A. Biancamano Esq., of Chatham, New Jersey, represented Valentine. While one dealer is locked up, the Grimy Times will continue to follow the remaining members of this dangerous gang and their efforts to fill the void left by Valentine’s incarceration.
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Key Facts
- State: New Jersey
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Organized Crime|Violent Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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