Months-Long Drug Dealing Investigation Leads To Passaic Co. Suspect

PASSAIC COUNTY, NJ — A suspected drug dealer has been arrested in Passaic County, according to the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office.

Gilbert Colome Jr., 38, of Paterson, was arrested last week after police found several pounds of drugs, along with nearly $100,000 in illicit cash, in his possession, authorities said.

An investigation into the distribution of narcotics, primarily cocaine, in the county launched this past January. According to authorities, the months-long investigation led police to Colome.

On July 15, police executed a search warrant of a Paterson residence, an East Rutherford Residence, and two vehicles, all with ties to Colome.

Investigators found three kilograms of cocaine, several ecstasy pills, and around $91,000 in cash in the Paterson residence and the two vehicles.

Police also recovered “various drug packaging materials” at the East Rutherford residence.

The investigation was conducted by the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics, Gangs, and Violent Crimes Task Force.

Colome was arrested and processed soon after.

He has received six drug charges of varying degrees, including first-degree possession of a controlled dangerous substance (CDS) with intent to distribute and third-degree possession with intent to distribute within 1,000 feet of school property.

On July 16, Colome appeared for his first appearance at the Passaic County Central Judicial Processing Court and was released from custody on pretrial monitoring pending trial.

If convicted on all charges, Colome faces a maximum of 45 years in prison.