Two former football stars at high schools in Paterson NJ were recently arrested because they allegedly played key roles in a heroin distribution operation based out of New York.

Federal authorities worked with NJ law enforcement agencies to investigate a possible drug distribution ring.

According to officials, the suspects were among several people working for a heroin trafficking network. The drugs, primarily heroin, were reportedly packaged in Washington Heights and the Bronx in NY and then illegally sold in Monmouth County and Ocean County, NJ.

Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) detectives eventually got enough evidence to obtain search warrants and arrest warrants.

During searches of the drug network’s properties, police allegedly discovered large amounts of heroin.

Thus far, 11 people have been arrested in connection with the drug trafficking operation. Among those arrested were the two Paterson suspects. One of the Paterson suspects went to high school at St. Mary, while the other Paterson suspects went to high school at Eastside High.

Prosecutors have alleged that the Paterson NJ suspects were middle men in the drug distribution operation.

To learn more about this case, see the NJ.com article, “2 Ex-High School Football Stars Charged in Shore Heroin Sweep.”