W. Caldwell Teen Busted for Alleged Drug Dealing

A 19-year-old West Caldwell man faces several narcotics possession and distribution charges following a month-long joint investigation between the West Caldwell and Essex Fells police departments.

West Caldwell and Essex Fells police along with the Essex County Sheriff's Department K-9 Unit executed a search warrant and arrested Samuel Brodie, 19, at his Park Terrace home Wednesday at about 3 p.m., West Caldwell Police Chief Michael Bramhall said Thursday.

Bramhall said Brodie was arrested without incident and charged with possession of marijuana, intent to distribute marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Since Brodie, who lives with his parents, resides within 1,000 feet of Jefferson School, he was also charged with possession of marijuana within a school zone and intent to distribute marijuana within a school zone, Bramhall said.

According to Bramhall, 4 ounces of marijuana, $2,351 in cash and a large amount of distribution material, including scales and plastic bags, were confiscated from the home. In addition, police also confiscated an 8-inch spring-loaded folding knife, Bramhall said.

The investigation was launched about a month ago when Essex Fells police received information regarding Brodie's alleged illegal activity, Bramhall said.

Bramhall and Essex Fells Police Chief Vincent Kulik oversaw the investigation, which was coordinated by officers from both departments. Police determined the alleged distribution mostly occurred at the Park Terrace residence and there was no indication anyone else was involved, Bramhall said.

Brodie, who doesn't have a prior record, was held on $40,000 bail and released when his parents posted 10 percent of the amount, Bramhall said.

The case has been transferred to the Essex County Prosecutor's Office and Brodie is scheduled to make a county court appearance on Aug. 19, Bramhall said.

The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.