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Former Postal Worker, Newark Woman Allegedly Attempted to Smuggle Cocaine from Puerto Rico to the United States

Newark

Acting Essex County Prosecutor Carolyn A. Murray announced today that Amanda Cruz, 22, of Newark has been arrested and charged with first-degree narcotics violations.

Police said Cruz, who is in custody, has been charged with two counts of first-degree possession of cocaine with intent to distribute and related conspiracy charges.

It is alleged that during June of 2016, Cruz entered into an agreement to smuggle cocaine internationally from Puerto Rico to the United States.

It is alleged that Cruz, who was working as a United States Postal delivery person, made arrangements to have kilograms of cocaine delivered via United States Postal Service to various addresses in Short Hills where she believed the residents were on vacation.

Acting Essex County Prosecutor Murray commended the Millburn Police Department and the United States Postal Inspection Service for their outstanding work in investigating this case.

These are accusations.

All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until they enter a guilty plea or are found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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