Federal authorities arrested an Elizabeth resident then charged him with possessing three firearms, as well as possessing with intent to distribute narcotics, Acting U.S. Attorney Rachael A. Honig announced today.
According to federal officials, Mr. Orlando Perez, 38, is charged by complaint with possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon, and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances.
Perez appeared by videoconference this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Cathy L. Waldor and was detained.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
On Dec. 10, 2020, law enforcement officers lawfully searched Perez’s residence and recovered the following: one .38 caliber Smith and Wesson revolver loaded with five rounds of .38 caliber ammunition; a .45 caliber Harrington and Richardson semiautomatic carbine; a 20 gauge Browning shotgun; three magazines; approximately 1,500 rounds of ammunition; as well as heroin, fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine pills, and drug paraphernalia.
The narcotics offense carries a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison, and a fine of $1 million.
The felon in possession of firearms and ammunition charge carries a maximum potential penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000.