By: Tracie Carter
A federal grand jury in New Jersey has indicted three men on multiple charges related to an alleged large-scale drug trafficking operation distributing fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine in Newark, according to a statement released by the U.S. Department of Justice.
The indictment, returned in the District of New Jersey, charges George Lopez, 50, of Newark; Reinaldo Cruz, 45, of Elizabeth; and Joel Hernandez, 28, of Parlin with conspiracy to distribute significant quantities of methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl. 
In addition to the conspiracy charge, Lopez faces multiple other counts, including possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine, illegal possession of firearms and ammunition as a convicted felon, and possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking.
Cruz has been charged with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine, as well as illegal firearm possession.
Hernandez is also accused of possessing controlled substances with intent to distribute and unlawfully possessing a firearm.
According to court documents and previously unsealed evidence, Cruz and Hernandez allegedly distributed controlled substances at various locations in Essex and Union Counties on behalf of the drug trafficking organization (DTO).
Investigators believe that Lopez, while incarcerated, played a leadership role by advising the organization and using his connections to secure drug supplies.
Authorities also allege that Lopez and Cruz are associates of the Latin Kings street gang and were financially benefiting from the DTO's operations.
During the investigation, law enforcement utilized intercepted communications, surveillance operations, controlled purchases, and phone record analysis to gather evidence against the suspects.
The findings suggest the DTO was responsible for trafficking more than 500 grams of methamphetamine, 5 kilograms of cocaine, and 40 grams of fentanyl.
The charges carry significant penalties:
- The conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine charge carries a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison, with a maximum potential life sentence and a $10 million fine.
- The fentanyl conspiracy and drug possession charges against Lopez each carry a mandatory minimum of 5 years in prison, with a maximum sentence of 40 years and a $5 million fine.
- Additional drug possession charges could result in up to 20 years in prison and a $1 million fine per count.
- The illegal firearm possession charges carry a maximum of 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine per offense.
- The possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking charge includes a mandatory minimum of 5 years in prison, which must be served consecutively to any other sentence. 
Authorities continue their investigation into the DTO and any further connections to organized crime.