Hazlet Man Admits To Narcotics, Firearms Offenses: Prosecutor

HAZLET, NJ — A Hazlet man is facing 15 years in prison after admitting to multiple counts of possessing large amounts of narcotics with the intent to distribute and possessing a firearm while committing a drug offense, Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond Santiago said.

During a hearing on Monday, Robert Maldonado, 47, pleaded guilty to first-degree possession with intent to distribute a controlled dangerous substance, possession of a firearm in the course of committing a drug offense and second-degree possession with intent to distribute a controlled dangerous substance, Santiago said.

As a result of his plea, prosecutors said Maldonado faces 15 years in an NJ state prison and must serve at least 42 months before he is eligible for parole.

Maldonado’s plea stems from multiple investigations with members of the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office Bayshore Task Force and Hazlet, Keansburg and Middletown Police Departments in 2024.

Authorities’ initial investigation resulted in a search of Maldonado’s home in January 2024.

During the search, Santiago said law enforcement recovered a 9mm handgun as well as multiple controlled dangerous substances, including over 5 ounces of cocaine.

A subsequent investigation led to the execution of a second search warrant at Maldonado’s home in November 2024. During that search, police recovered an additional half ounce of cocaine, as well as paraphernalia, indicative of the distribution of narcotics, prosecutors said.

Maldonado’s sentencing is scheduled for Friday, May 16, before Judge Joseph Oxley.