Newark Fireman Arrested on Marijuana Charges

By Alicia Cruz 
The Black Urban Times 

An off-duty Newark, New Jersey firefighter is facing several narcotic charges following an investigation by detectives with the Newark Police Department's elite Viper Unit.

According to the press release, Viper Unit detectives were acting upon information indicating that an individual in the Ironbound section of Newark was distributing marijuana.

Acting Essex County Prosecutor Carolyn A. Murray said the detectives placed the 33-year-old firefighter under surveillance prior to arresting him on December 10, 2012.

Once in custody, Paul Andrade was found to be in possession of a quantity of marijuana. Viper detectives subsequently executed a search warrant at Andrade’s residence and his 2010 Jaguar discovering marijuana in both places.

Andrade has been charged with Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance, Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance with the Intent to Distribute and Possession with the Intent to Distribute within 500 feet of Public Property.

The Newark fireman was released on his own recognizance, said Murray, who added that the charges against Andrade will be referred to a grand jury.

Murray commended the members of the Viper Unit for their work on this investigation.