Major Drug Network Busted in Paterson: Cops

Authorities say they've disrupted a major drug distribution network in New Jersey's third-largest city.

New Jersey Attorney General Paula Dow says a yearlong investigation into gang activity in Paterson has resulted in more than 170 arrests. Police also seized a dozen weapons and more than 4,000 bags of heroin, crack, marijuana and other drugs.

Police said the group operated out of Paterson's Fourth Ward, a longtime hub of drug activity on the outskirts of the city's downtown.

The multi-agency task force executed nine search warrants and made 22 arrests early Thursday.

Prosecutors worked with the New Jersey State Police, the Passaic County Sheriff's Department and local law enforcement to target the activities of a set of the Bloods street gang called the Fruit Town Brims.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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