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Three Arrests Made in Paterson as Investigations Seize Illegal Guns and Large Quantities of Drugs
Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin, along with other law enforcement officials, announced the arrest of three individuals in connection with two separate investigations targeting crime in Paterson. One operation led to the seizure of 10 illegal guns and 17 large-capacity ammunition magazines, while the other resulted in the takedown of a drug manufacturing facility and the confiscation of multiple kilos of cocaine, heroin, and crystal methamphetamine.
“Operation 293 Flip” began in February 2023 and culminated in the arrest of 40-year-old Felix Rodriguez, who allegedly operated a drug production facility. Authorities seized drugs with a combined street value of over $1.6 million, as well as a .357 revolver. In a separate gun trafficking investigation, Ashraf D. Abedrabbo, 28, and Martha G. Castillo-Medina, 30, were arrested after a vehicle search yielded 10 handguns and 17 large-capacity magazines.
Attorney General Platkin emphasized the importance of such collaborative efforts in keeping illegal guns and drugs out of Paterson, making the city safer for its residents.
These arrests and seizures are part of the Attorney General's crime reduction strategy for the City of Paterson. In the case of “Operation 293 Flip,” the joint investigation by the Division of Criminal Justice (DCJ) Gangs and Organized Crime Bureau North Unit and the Paterson Police Department (PPD) Narcotics Unit led to the arrest of Felix Rodriguez. He now faces multiple charges, including first-degree maintaining a controlled dangerous substance (CDS) manufacturing facility and possession with intent to distribute various drugs.
The gun trafficking investigation was led by the New Jersey State Police (NJSP) Weapons Trafficking North Unit, with assistance from the DCJ. Both Abedrabbo and Castillo-Medina have been charged with second-degree unlawful possession of a weapon, unlawfully transporting firearms, conspiring to unlawfully transport firearms, and possession of large capacity magazines.
These combined efforts demonstrate the shared commitment among various law enforcement agencies to tackle criminal activities in Paterson and improve public safety for its residents. With the continued collaboration between the Attorney General's Office, NJSP, DCJ, and PPD, the authorities aim to further reduce crime rates and create a safer environment for the people of Paterson.
