By: Richard L. Smith
A long-running investigation into a large-scale marijuana distribution ring has led to the arrests of six people from North Jersey, according to a statement released by the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office.
Prosecutor Mark Musella said the group was taken into custody following a coordinated operation involving county prosecutors in Bergen, Essex, Morris, and Passaic, along with the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Detectives began tracking the operation in late 2023 after uncovering an illicit marijuana distribution network believed to be moving large quantities of cannabis throughout the region.
As the case expanded beyond Bergen County, investigators partnered with the DEA and spent nearly two years working to identify everyone involved and the locations used to store and process the drugs.
On Nov. 19, 2025, investigators executed a series of court-authorized search warrants at multiple homes and properties tied to the suspects.
According to the prosecutor’s office, detectives seized more than $500,000 in cash, over 200 pounds of marijuana, drug-processing equipment, and hundreds of packaged cannabis products ready for sale.
The following individuals were arrested:
Frank A. Preziosi, 49, of West Orange
Samer J. Helou, 39, of Fairfield
Leila Helou, 64, of West Caldwell
James A. Marra, 31, of Belleville
Miguel A. Rosa, 39, of West New York
Abbas Sayed, 56, of West Caldwell
According to the prosecutor’s office, the charges generally include running or assisting in a large-quantity marijuana distribution operation and conspiring to distribute more than 25 pounds of cannabis. 
Several defendants are also charged with money laundering connected to the proceeds of the drug activity.
All six defendants were processed following Wednesday’s coordinated operation. The investigation remains active.