Hackensack, NJ – A monthslong narcotics investigation culminated Tuesday with the arrest of a New Milford man and the seizure of drugs, cash, and what officials described as a drug processing operation inside his apartment. The case, led by Hackensack police, centered on alleged street-level distribution activity tied to a Bergen County residence.
The Hackensack Police Department announced the arrest of 39-year-old Roy C. Theodore following the execution of a court-authorized search warrant at his apartment on April 1. Authorities said the operation was carried out by the department’s Crime Suppression Bureau with support from the Emergency Service Unit.
Investigation leads to search warrant and seizure
According to the department, “The arrest is the result of an investigation conducted by the Crime Suppression Bureau, under the direction of Chief Michael Antista.” During the search, officers reported finding crack cocaine packaged for street-level sales, approximately $18,200 in suspected drug proceeds, and equipment used in a narcotics manufacturing operation.
Police stated the warrant was issued by Bergen County Superior Court and executed with assistance from regional units. “The search warrant yielded a quantity of crack/cocaine packaged for street level narcotic sales, approximately $18,200.00 in suspected narcotic proceeds derived from criminal activity, and a narcotics manufacturing operation established for the processing and distribution of the narcotics,” the department said in its release.
Charges filed, suspect held in county jail
Theodore faces multiple charges, including maintaining or operating a controlled dangerous substance production facility (first degree), manufacturing or possessing narcotics with intent to distribute (third degree), financial facilitation of criminal activity (third degree), and possession with intent to distribute or manufacture (fourth degree).
Police confirmed that “ROY C. THEODORE was processed and transported to the Bergen County Jail on a Complaint Warrant pending his initial appearance at Central Judicial Processing Court in Hackensack, NJ.” Authorities emphasized that “These charges are merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.”
Chief Antista also acknowledged regional cooperation in the case, stating he “would like to extend the thanks of the Hackensack Police Department to the New Milford and Teaneck Police Departments for their assistance in the investigation.”
Officials urged the public to report suspicious activity, noting that tips can be submitted anonymously through CrimeStoppers, with potential cash rewards available.
