'Massive' N.J. Drug Bust: 30 Pounds Of Deadly Fentanyl Seized

A massive amount of deadly fentanyl — about 30 pounds — was seized in a major New Jersey drug raid last week, according to authorities.

Yahmire Boardley, 22, of Camden was arrested after 30 pounds of fentanyl were seized in a cooperative investigation by the New Jersey State Police Trafficking South Unit and U.S. Homeland Security Investigations in Cherry Hill.

On Thursday, authorities executed several search warrants throughout Camden as the result of the month-long investigation. Investigators seized fentanyl from multiple locations and arrested Boardley at his city residence, according to a State Police release.

Boardley was charged with possession of a controlled dangerous substance and possession of a controlled dangerous substance with intent to distribute. He was processed at the New Jersey State Police Bellmawr Station and lodged at the Camden County Jail pending a bail hearing, according to the release.

Boardley

Fentanyl is one of the deadliest opioids. While it has been spotlighted for killing Prince, it also has been responsible for a growing death toll in New Jersey, where 417 deaths were attributed to fentanyl in 2015, according to the State Police.

Used to treat acute pain, fentanyl is up to 50 times more powerful than heroin. In addition, seven fentanyl knockoffs have been sold on the street in New Jersey, usually disguised as less-powerful drugs like heroin or oxycodone, triggering overdose deaths.

The Attorney General’s Office issued an emergency order last year adding those fentanyl knockoffs to the list of drugs subject to the strictest level of state control.

“This is a huge bust. By arresting this alleged drug dealer and seizing 14 kilograms (30 pounds) of fentanyl, which is 50 times more powerful than heroin, the State Police and HSI stopped many thousands of doses of this lethal opiate from reaching the street,” said Attorney General Christopher S. Porrino.

The investigation was conducted by State Police detectives, along with federal agents and officers from the Camden County Police Department

“Our ongoing interdiction of major drug traffickers is just one aspect of our multi-faceted efforts to fight the tragic epidemic of opiate addiction, but it is an important one that, in this case, undoubtedly saved many lives," Porrino said. "Another area of focus for our office includes a new strike team that has criminally charged six doctors with indiscriminately prescribing pain pills for profit.”

“Through multi-agency operations such as this one, we’re working to stop the flow of opiates into our communities and save lives,” said Director Elie Honig of the Division of Criminal Justice. “I commend our partners in the State Police and Homeland Security Investigations for their work on this outstanding investigation.”

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