Three atlantic city men plead guilty to drug distribution charges

MAYS LANDING, NJ — Three Atlantic City men have pleaded guilty to narcotics distribution charges following a 2023 drug investigation that uncovered large quantities of heroin and cocaine, the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office announced.

Alvin Whittaker, 32, pleaded guilty to first-degree possession of five ounces or more of cocaine with intent to distribute and fourth-degree contempt of a drug offender restraining order. Under a plea agreement, he faces an expected sentence of 10 years in New Jersey State Prison.

Co-defendants Juan Howard, 31, and James Clegg, 34, both of Atlantic City, pleaded guilty to second-degree conspiracy to distribute five ounces or more of cocaine. Clegg also admitted to third-degree possession of heroin with intent to distribute in a school zone. Both Howard and Clegg are expected to receive five-year prison sentences.

The charges stem from a November 8, 2023, investigation by the Atlantic City Police Department’s Vice Unit. Officers conducting surveillance at Carver Hall observed Clegg entering an apartment while Whittaker waited in a vehicle counting money. A subsequent traffic stop led to the discovery of 50 folds of heroin labeled “Gorilla” in Clegg’s possession and $8,434 in cash inside the vehicle.

Howard was arrested at the scene on an active warrant, and a search of his person yielded $1,020 in cash. A later search of the Carver Hall apartment uncovered more than five ounces of cocaine, over 10,000 folds of heroin, and drug packaging materials.

All three men admitted under oath to participating in a conspiracy to distribute heroin and cocaine, with evidence corroborated by surveillance footage and seized cellphone messages.

Whittaker, Howard, and Clegg remain in custody at the Atlantic County Justice Facility and are scheduled for sentencing in February 2025.

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