Major Drug Trafficking Ring Dismantled in Union County, Nine Charged

Federal and local law enforcement agencies have charged nine individuals in connection with a large-scale drug distribution network in Union County, New Jersey.

In a significant crackdown on drug trafficking, U.S. Attorney Philip Sellinger has announced the indictment of nine men for allegedly operating a major narcotics distribution ring in Union County, specifically targeting the Plainfield area. The individuals charged are suspected members of the Sex, Money, Murder set of the Bloods street gang and are accused of distributing fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine.

The accused include Jerry Ross, 46, from Somerset; Joseph Ross, 42, from Rahway; Luis Delvalle, 41, Pernell White, 36, and Jaquay Bell, 35, all from Piscataway; Andre Gaddy, 31, from North Plainfield; and Jacob Douglas, 42, Tarrell Strond, 42, and Tayeire Thomas, 26, all from Plainfield. They face charges of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. As of now, Douglas, White, and Thomas are still at large, with six others scheduled to appear before U.S. Magistrate Judge Cathy L. Waldor in Newark.

Documents filed in court reveal that the accused were part of an open-air narcotics market centered around West 3rd Street in Plainfield. Over several months, law enforcement agencies conducted undercover purchases and extensive surveillance, including the analysis of telephone records which demonstrated significant drug trafficking activity among the group.

This operation drew support from multiple agencies, including Homeland Security Investigations Newark, the Union County Prosecutor’s Office, the Plainfield Police Department, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Perth Amboy Police Department, and the New Jersey Division of Criminal Justice. The collaborative effort underscores the dedication of federal and local agencies in combating organized crime and drug trafficking in New Jersey.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jason Goldberg and Rachelle M. Navarro of the Organized Crime and Gangs Unit in Newark. While the charges against these individuals are severe, it is important to note that they are presumed innocent until proven guilty. This case highlights the ongoing struggle against drug-related crime and the commitment of law enforcement to uphold safety and law in the community.