By: Richard L. Smith
A months-long undercover investigation into a covert drug operation within the Rutgers University community has resulted in seven arrests and the seizure of a range of illegal substances, a firearm, and cash, according to a statement released by Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone.
Dubbed “Operation RU Pharm,” the investigation was spearheaded by the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Task Force, which collaborated with the Rutgers University Police Department, New Brunswick Police Department, and Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office.
According to the prosecutor's office, the operation uncovered a private social media platform used by Rutgers students to buy and sell narcotics.
The network, reportedly created by a former Rutgers student, allowed drug distributors to post menus advertising substances, including marijuana, cocaine, LSD, psilocybin mushrooms, Adderall, and Xanax. Prospective buyers, who were required to prove their affiliation with Rutgers, could then negotiate purchases directly with sellers.
The investigation culminated in the arrests of the following individuals, who face a variety of charges:
- Anudeep Revuri, 23, of North Brunswick, identified as the leader of the drug trafficking network, faces charges including first-degree drug trafficking, conspiracy to distribute drugs, and related offenses.
- Joshua Duffy, 20, of Somerset, is charged with multiple counts of drug distribution, drug possession, money laundering, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
- Zachary Petersen, 22, of Red Bank, is accused of drug distribution, possession, money laundering, and paraphernalia-related offenses.
- Catherine Tierney, 23, of Shrewsbury, faces similar charges, including drug distribution, possession, and money laundering.
- David Nudelman, 20, of Jackson, is charged with firearm possession during a drug offense, drug distribution, and related counts.
- Donovin Williams, 22, of Kingston, NY, is charged with drug distribution in a school zone, possession, and paraphernalia-related offenses.
- Noa Lisimachio, 21, of New York, NY, faces charges of resisting arrest and obstruction of justice.
The investigation revealed significant quantities of illegal substances, including large amounts of marijuana, LSD, cocaine, psilocybin mushrooms, Adderall, and Xanax.
Additionally, authorities seized a firearm and a substantial amount of U.S. currency during the operation, according to the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office.
“This operation highlights the extent to which drug networks can infiltrate even close-knit communities like Rutgers University,” said Prosecutor Ciccone in the released statement.
Law enforcement agencies continue investigating the case and have urged anyone with additional information to contact the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Task Force at (732) 745-3300. 
The arrests and dismantling of this network come as a wake-up call to the dangers of illicit drug trade within university communities and the critical role of multi-agency collaboration in addressing such threats.