Crime & Safety

Federal Drug Charge For Bergen Co. Man Could End In 80-Year Sentence

A Bergen County man pleaded not guilty in an arraignment Wednesday to charges that he distributed at least 100 grams of heroin.

BERGEN COUNTY, NJ — A Bergen County man pleaded not guilty in an arraignment Wednesday to charges that he distributed at least 100 grams of heroin, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger said Thursday.

Esmelby Estevez-Castillo, 35, of Ridgefield Park, faces up to 80 years in prison and up to $10 million in fines on two drug-related charges, if convicted, Sellinger said.

He was indicted on Aug. 2 on one count of conspiracy to distribute heroin and one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin. Both counts carry a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison and a maximum fine of $5 million.

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