New jersey drug queen pushed psychodelic drugs, 25 pounds of weed near public park

FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP, NJ—Maria Santiago-Cossean, 55, of Franklin Township, was arrested on Thursday, charged with multiple drug-related offenses by detectives from the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office. The charges stem from a large-scale narcotics investigation focused on a significant marijuana distribution network.

Santiago-Cossean faces several charges including first-degree distribution of over 25 lbs. of marijuana, second-degree distribution of psilocybin mushrooms, and second-degree distribution of methamphetamine. Additional charges relate to possession, financial facilitation of criminal activity, and maintaining a narcotics production facility. Notably, the narcotics were reportedly distributed within 500 feet of a public park, enhancing the severity of the charges.

The arrest followed the execution of a search warrant at Santiago-Cossean’s residence on May 30, 2024. Authorities seized substantial quantities of drugs including approximately 346 lbs. of marijuana, 219 lbs. of THC gummies, eight lbs. of psilocybin mushrooms, and other THC products. Law enforcement also confiscated $26,000 in cash and various packaging materials used in the drug distribution operation.

The investigation involved multiple agencies including the Franklin Township Police Department, Gloucester SWAT, and the Gloucester County Prosecutor’s Office. Santiago-Cossean is currently held pending a detention hearing as the case continues to develop.

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