By: Richard L. Smith
A recent investigation by the Wayne Township Police Department's Special Operations / Narcotics Unit led to the arrest of three suspects on charges related to drug distribution.
According to a statement released by Detective Lieutenant Vincent J. Ricciardelli, the trio operated from a residence on Fourth Street in Wayne Township.
As a result of the investigation, authorities identified Mr. Tyler J. Simmons, 27, and Ms. Savannah L. Sommer, 26, both residents of Wayne, as suspects distributing heroin from their homes.
In response, the police planned an operation to apprehend any individuals involved in drug distribution on July 11, 2023.
During the operation, Lt. Ricciardelli said undercover detectives from the Special Operations / Narcotics Unit and the Criminal Investigations Bureau observed a black Dodge Charger arriving in the area.
They witnessed the driver engaging in a suspected hand-to-hand narcotics transaction with Tyler J. Simmons near his residence.
Swiftly reacting to the situation, detectives moved in to apprehend the suspects. However, the black Dodge Charger driver attempted to flee the scene by ramming a Wayne Police vehicle in reverse. The driver, later identified as Mr. Nygee M. Dennis, 25, from Paterson, was quickly captured by Wayne Police Detectives despite his failed escape attempt.
Lt. Ricciardelli said Tyler J. Simmons and Savannah L. Sommer were also arrested without incident during this time.
Upon their apprehension, Tyler J. Simmons was found possessing suspected crack cocaine and drug paraphernalia, while Mr. Dennis had a substantial amount of US currency. A further investigation led to the discovery of heroin and additional drug paraphernalia at the Fourth Street residence.
Lt. Ricciardelli said A later search of Mr. Dennis' vehicle revealed a significant amount of suspected heroin and suspected crack cocaine, along with more US currency.
All three suspects face multiple charges, including the distribution of crack cocaine, heroin, and other narcotics. The Wayne Township Police Department urges residents to report any suspected drug activity to the Special Operations / Narcotics Unit Tip Line at 973-633-3587, with the assurance that complaints may remain anonymous.
With the collaborative efforts of concerned citizens and dedicated law enforcement, the community is taking a solid stand against drug-related activities, working towards a safer and drug-free environment for all residents in Wayne Township.