Police Arrest Suspected Cocaine Dealer on Centennial Avenue

Wrapping up a four-month investigation, Cranford Police arrested Carlos Beltran, 29, of Elizabeth Thursday afternoon and charged him with distributing more than 20 grams of cocaine on Centennial Avenue.

He also received an extra charge for allegedly distributing the substance within 1,000 feet of Lincoln School, Detective Sgt. Gerard Quinn said. When criminal activity is thought to have taken place by school property, suspects face an additional penalty as deemed by state statute, Quinn explained.

Cranford Police started up an investigation in February at a local Centennial Avenue eatery after observing suspicious activity during the afternoon and evening – leading them to suspect drug transactions.

"There were people coming and going at weird hours and short durations," Quinn said. Police zeroed in on Beltran, who is an employee of the restaurant. He added that Beltran allegedly sold cocaine multiple times to undercover policemen over a two-month period.

Quinn declined to name the eatery, adding that police believe the owner and employees weren't involved in the drug operation.

Following his arrest, police searched Beltran's residence and uncovered around 15 pounds of suspected marijuana and rock cocaine. This findings led to additional charges; for possessing both drugs and for distributing marijuana.

Cranford Police also believe Beltran may be an illegal immigrant from Mexico. Quinn said the force is working with the Department of Homeland Security to investigate the matter.

For now, Beltran is being hold at Union County Jail in lieu of $150,000 bail. His first court appearance is scheduled for July 30.

* This article was updated Friday to reflect a bail increase, from $100,000 to $150,000, and additional drug charges filed after officers searched Beltran's residence.