By: Richard L. Smith
An East Orange resident admitted in federal court to distributing cocaine, possessing heroin and cocaine with the intent to distribute, and illegally possessing firearms, including two assault rifles with high-capacity magazines.
U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced the plea.
Federal officials said Azmar Carter, also known as “Bizzy,” 32, appeared before U.S. District Judge Madeline Cox Arleo and pleaded guilty to a superseding information that included charges of distributing and possessing cocaine, possession of firearms and ammunition as a convicted felon, and possession with intent to distribute heroin and cocaine.
According to a statement released by the U.S. Department of Justice, the charges stem from an investigation into a drug trafficking organization operating primarily in Orange, New Jersey, and throughout Essex County.
Law enforcement began surveilling the group in 2021 and linked Carter to the distribution of cocaine on two occasions, in May and July of that year.
On August 18, 2021, authorities executed a search warrant at Carter’s residence and vehicle in East Orange and recovered significant evidence.
Among the seized items were a Draco AK-47 rifle, a Smith & Wesson AR-style rifle, a .40 caliber pistol, 94 rounds of ammunition, heroin, cocaine, and approximately $7,177 in cash.
The offenses carry severe penalties. The drug trafficking charges could result in up to 20 years in prison and a $1 million fine.
Additionally, the firearms offense carries a maximum sentence of 10 years and a $250,000 fine. Sentencing is scheduled for April 30, 2025.
The case highlights the continued effort by law enforcement to combat drug trafficking and illegal firearms possession in Essex County.