NEW JERSEY — A Bronx man is facing major drug charges after authorities discovered over 220 pounds of suspected cocaine and THC-based products in his vehicle during a New Jersey traffic stop, according to Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin.
Miguel Ortiz, 34, of Bronx, New York, was arrested after the New Jersey State Police (NJSP), with assistance from the Division of Criminal Justice (DCJ), executed a search warrant on a silver Honda Odyssey believed to be involved in drug trafficking.
Authorities say the search yielded a massive haul of approximately 100 kilograms of cocaine, along with THC vape cartridges and cannabis edibles, all intended for distribution. Officials estimate the street value in the millions, calling it a significant blow to the drug trade in the region.
Ortiz has been charged with the following offenses:
First-degree possession with intent to distribute cocaine
Third-degree possession of cocaine
Second-degree possession with intent to distribute THC products
Fourth-degree possession of THC products
If convicted on all counts, Ortiz faces a combined maximum of over 35 years in prison and more than $375,000 in fines:
First-degree charge: 10–20 years in prison and a $200,000 fine
Second-degree charge: 5–10 years, up to $150,000
Third-degree charge: 3–5 years, up to $15,000
Fourth-degree charge: Up to 18 months, up to $10,000
The case is being prosecuted by Deputy Attorney General Benjamin Forrest, under the supervision of Deputy Bureau Chief Matthew Bernal and Bureau Chief Cassandra Montalto of the DCJ.
The NJSP continues to investigate, and further arrests or charges may follow. Authorities remind the public that Ortiz is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
