A newly formed task force against drug-trafficking led to two arrests and seizure of guns and drugs in Hammonton.
Gene Restuccio and Jessica Paolini were arrested Jan. 17, after an ongoing investigation by the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force — Atlantic City Division, Atlantic County Prosecutor Damon Tyner announced late Monday.
“The resources of the Liberty Atlantic HIDTA, Atlantic City Division offer our area a unique opportunity to reduce the flow of narcotics and ultimately the rate of drug violence,” Tyner said. “This case represents the first of what we hope to be many in our effort to reduce crime.”
The multi-agency group includes the Galloway, Hamilton and Egg Harbor township police departments, along with Atlantic City police, the DEA, Atlantic County Sheriff’s Department and the Atlantic and Cape May County prosecutor’s offices.
Restuccio, 65, was arrested at his Reading Avenue home by the Atlantic County Regional SWAT Team.
A search of the residence led to more than an ounce of crystal methamphetamine, about a pound of marijuana, drug-packaging material, two shotguns — one that was loaded — and hundreds of rounds of ammunition, Tyner said.
Paolini, 35, of Pennsauken was also arrested. She was released on a summons.
Both were charged with possession of marijuana, possession of crystal meth, conspiracy to distribute a controlled dangerous substance and two counts of possession with intent to distribute.
Restuccio was additionally charged with possession of a firearm.
He was ordered held in the Atlantic County Justice Facility following a detention hearing before Superior Court Judge Benjamin Podolnick.
