Crime & Safety

Cranford Police Seize Major Heroin, Cocaine Shipment

Investigation leads to arrest of two Newark men and $10K of drugs.

Acting on information provided to Lt. James Wozniak by a concerned resident, Cranford Police detectives began an investigation that resulted in the arrest of two men and the seizure of more than 1,000 packages of suspected heroin and more than 100 bags of suspected rock cocaine.

The investigation began in early February when information was obtained that identified two Newark men as being involved in the regular distribution of narcotics in Cranford. The investigation was spearheaded by Detective Ryan Greco and involved undercover surveillance and intelligence gathering operations in Cranford and Newark.

On Feb. 16, at approximately 9:20 a.m., Cranford detectives intercepted Darius Scott, 34, of Newark, and Milton Lee, 35, also of Newark during a suspected delivery attempt in Cranford. The pair were operating a 2004 Volvo sport utility on Orchard Street. As a result of the motor vehicle stop, both Scott and Lee were arrested. Seized during the stop and arrest were 1,037 packages of suspected heroin and 124 bags of suspected rock cocaine with an estimated street value more than $10,000.

Scott was charged with possession of a controlled dangerous substance - heroin and cocaine - a third degree crime; possession of a controlled dangerous substance with intent to distribute, a second degree crime; and possession of a controlled dangerous substance with intent to distribute in a park zone - Hampton Park - a second degree crime. Bail was set at $150,000.

Milton Lee was charged with possession of a controlled dangerous substance - heroin - a third degree crime. Bail was set at $10,000. Both subjects were transferred to the Union County Jail in Elizabeth.

“Like many suburban municipalities, Cranford has been targeted by criminals and drug dealers with intent to harm our community,” Cranford Police Chief Eric Mason said. “Today and every day, this police department is targeting the criminals right back. We are sending the message that we won’t tolerate that activity here.”

All charges against Scott and Lee are pending in New Jersey Superior Court in Union County.

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