NORTH WILDWOOD – Cape May County Prosecutor Robert Taylor and Chief Matthew Gallagher of the North Wildwood Police Department announce the arrest of Tahiem A. Howell, 38, of North Wildwood, for the distribution of heroin and cocaine.
According to a release, this arrest was the conclusion of a cooperative investigation between the Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office, Gangs, Guns and Narcotics Task Force and the North Wildwood Police Department Detective Division.
On March 10, a court authorized search warrant was executed in the 300 West block 19th Avenue, North Wildwood, with the assistance of the Cape May Regional SWAT team. Seized as a result of the search warrant was 500 bags of suspected heroin and approximately six ounces of suspected crack cocaine, along with $2,545. The combined street value of the heroin and crack cocaine was in excess of $20,000. The money seized from this investigation will be submitted for forfeiture as proceeds from illegal drug distribution.
As a result of this investigation, Howell was charged with distribution of controlled dangerous substance (CDS) – crack cocaine, first degree; possession of CDS – crack cocaine, third degree; possession of CDS – heroin, third degree; distribution within 500 feet of public place – crack cocaine, second degree; and distribution within 500 feet of public place – heroin, second degree. Howell was processed and released on a summons pending court proceedings.
Taylor advises that a person convicted of a first degree crime is subject to a term of imprisonment of 10 to 20 years in New Jersey State Prison. Crimes of the second degree carry a sentence of five to 10 years and third degree crimes carry a sentence of three to five years.
Taylor stated that his office will continue to work hand in hand with the local municipalities to target anyone selling illegal CDS.
Taylor continues to urge the citizens of Cape May County to report any information regarding illegal drug activity or any criminal activity within the community and that this information can be reported to the Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office at 609-465-1135, or anonymously through the Cape May County Sheriff’s Tip Line at cmcsheriff.net and click on anonymous tip, or through the Cape May County Crime Stoppers at 609-465-2800 or 877-465-2801.
The charges and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations and the defendant is considered innocent unless and until proven guilty. This report is based on information received from law enforcement.
