By: Tracie Carter
A major narcotics investigation has led to the arrest of eight individuals and the seizure of thousands of doses of suspected drugs in Elizabeth, according to a statement released by the Union County Prosecutor’s Office.
On Friday, September 12, law enforcement officers from multiple agencies executed search warrants across several locations in Elizabeth.
The coordinated operation involved the Union County Prosecutor’s Office Intelligence and Narcotics Division, the Elizabeth Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Department of Homeland Security, the Union County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit, and Union County SWAT.
Authorities reported the raids turned up 24,920 folds of suspected heroin, nearly 1,500 grams of cocaine, 260 grams of crack cocaine, 28 grams of methamphetamine, and two handguns.
Those arrested include Shawn A. Hobson, 60, of South Carolina; Louis E. White, 56; Tyrone Smith, 66; Ishmiel M. Baker, 47; Darrel Simms, 63; Radee A. Wills, 31; Shaquanda L. Wells, 45; and Imani K. Wells, 29, all of Elizabeth.
Prosecutors said the group faces a range of charges, including drug distribution, possession with intent to distribute within school zones, maintaining drug production facilities, and multiple weapons offenses.
“I want to commend the dedicated efforts of all law enforcement agencies involved in this multi-agency investigation,” Union County Prosecutor William A. Daniel said.
The defendants remain in custody pending court appearances.