An alleged New Jersey drug dealer is under arrest this week when state police uncovered a large suuply of fentanyl in South Jersey.
New Jersey State Police announced Friday that Yahmire Boardley, 22, of Camden, was charged with multiple drug offenses and 14 kilograms, or about 30 pounds, of fentanyl was seized in a raid with U.S. Homeland Security.
Authorities executed search warrants throught Camden on Thursday following a month-long investigation. The drugs were found at multiple locations while Boardley was taken into custody at his residence.
Fentanyl, a deadly opioid, is typically prescribed to treat acute pain. However, dealers sometimes lace heroin with fentanyl to boost the effects, increasing the risks of overdose.
“This is a huge bust. By arresting this alleged drug dealer and seizing 14 kilograms of fentanyl, which is 50 times more powerful than heroin, the State Police and HSI stopped many thousands of doses of this lethal opiate from reaching the street,” said Christopher S. Porrino, the state's attorney general.
In 2015, 417 deaths were attributed to fentanyl in New Jersey, prompting state officials to issue an emergency order to add fentanyl and related substances to the list of drugs subject to the strictest level of state control.
“This massive seizure of fentanyl, which is a highly addictive and lethal opioid, almost certainly saved lives,” said Colonel Rick Fuentes, state police superintendent.
Boardley was charged with possession of a controlled dangerous substance and possession of a controlled dangerous substance with intent to distribute. He was sent to Camden County Jail pending a bail hearing.