“OUT OF BUSINESS”

A cooperative narcotics investigation conducted between the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office and the New Jersey State Police in the latter part of 2005, resulted in the indictment of 17 individuals on charges of conspiracy to distribute a controlled dangerous substance or possession of a controlled dangerous substance with the intent to distribute.

In 2005 investigators from the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office and officers from the New Jersey State Police utilized both surveillance and informant information to conduct an investigation into the marijuana distribution network led by Melvin Marrero of Edgewater Park. During the investigation six pounds of marijuana were purchased from individuals who were supplied by Marrero.

The investigation culminated with the arrest of seventeen individuals and execution of search warrants on eight residences and seven vehicles. In all total, the investigation resulted in the seizure of: 15 pounds of marijuana with a street value of $67,500; $70,000 worth of cocaine; 26 motor vehicles; 9 firearms and a 22 foot boat.

Authorities estimate that the Marrero operation distributed between 75 – 100 pounds of marijuana a week in Burlington County prior to being dismantled.

The New Jersey Narcotics Enforcement Officers Association congratulates both the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office and the New Jersey State Police on such an outstanding investigation.