Members of the Paterson Police Department conducted a raid at an apartment in the 6th Ward that they suspected was serving as a heroin processing facility. During the search, they discovered raw heroin, packaged heroin, cutting agents, and drug paraphernalia. The man who was arrested in connection with the investigation is now facing charges for maintaining or operating a controlled dangerous substance production facility, among other drug-related offenses.
According to Paterson Police Director Jerry Speziale, narcotics detectives executed a search at approximately 8:00p.m. on Wednesday, May 27th. The apartment, located at 276 Atlantic Street in Paterson’s 6th Ward, was believed to be involved in drug production, which compelled police to further investigate.
During the search of the premises, officers reportedly discovered 16 grams of raw heroin, 60 glassine packets of heroin, 38 grams of a cutting agent, drug paraphernalia including grinders, spoons, and a scale, 28 baggies of marijuana, and $2,031 in suspected drug proceeds. 38-year-old Everett Cline was arrested shortly thereafter.
As a result of the search, Cline has been charged with the first-degree crime of maintaining or operating a controlled dangerous substance production facility and other drug offenses. Due to the items discovered in the apartment, he may also be charged with possession of heroin with intent to distribute, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Among the crimes for which he has been accused, maintaining or operating a controlled dangerous substance production facility is one of the most serious offenses addressed under the New Jersey Criminal Code. As such, it is a first degree crime, punishable by a term of incarceration of between 10 and 20 years in New Jersey State Prison. In addition, these offenses may entail a fine not to exceed $750,000.00 or five times the street value of the controlled substance associated with the alleged offense.
For additional information regarding this case, view the following article: Police: Drug raid targets South Paterson heroin operation