Newark – Acting Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens, II, announced today that an Essex County jury has convicted Keshawn Tucker, 44, of Irvington of six drug related offenses, following a trial before the Honorable Arthur J. Batista, Judge of the Superior Court.
Officials say Tucker was convicted of possession of heroin, possession of cocaine, possession with intent to distribute heroin and cocaine, and possession of heroin and cocaine within 1,000 feet of a school.
According to Assistant Prosecutor Chelsea Coleman, who tried the case, on March 11, 2017 Tucker was pulled over by Newark Police in the area of Broadway and Montclair Avenue for motor vehicle violations.
Police say when Tucker was stopped, cops discovered that he had an expired and suspended license and an open warrant.
Officers placed him under arrest and put him in the patrol car.
Tucker asked the police to retrieve his watch, medication and sweater.
In the course of getting those items from the car, the police noticed two plastic bags in the center console containing 155 decks of heroin and 94 vials of cocaine, Assistant Prosecutor Coleman said.
They also discovered three cell phones and $375 in cash.
Tucker was arrested and charged with multiple counts of drug possession and distribution.
Yesterday, he was convicted of all six counts. Sentencing is scheduled for Aug. 19. Because Tucker has three prior felony convictions -- one for carjacking and two drug offenses – he is extended term eligible. Consequently, he faces five to 10 years in New Jersey State Prison when he is sentenced.
“The jury rendered the judgment of the community after carefully weighing the facts and the evidence. Now, he will face the consequences of his actions,’’ said Assistant Prosecutor Coleman.