Man charged in one of largest fentanyl, methamphetamine busts in NJ history

A Passaic County man was charged on Monday in what officials described as one of the largest known drug seizures in the history of New Jersey.

On April 22, U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer announced that 46-year-old Nankel Stuardo Solorzano, of Clinton, New Jersey, was charged with trafficking fentanyl, methamphetamine and cocaine base, also known as “crack.”

“Narcotics, especially fentanyl, and illegal firearms are a deadly combination that poisons our communities and fuels violence. These charges send a clear message to those who seek to profit by flooding our communities with dangerous drugs: our Office will find you, no matter where you hide or how sophisticated you believe your operation to be. This investigation reflects our commitment to shutting down drug trafficking operations and keeping the people of New Jersey safe from the violence and destruction they cause,” Frazer said in a release.

According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court, Solorzano trafficked large quantities of drugs out of a residential apartment complex in Clifton.

On April 17, Solorzano was arrested while trying to access “his stash” following two drug deals, according to prosecutors.

Following his arrest, law enforcement searched Solorzano’s garages and his car and found millions of dollars worth of drugs, officials said.

According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, law enforcement seized:

• Over 40 kilograms of fentanyl
• Approximately 52 kilograms of methamphetamine
• More than 2 kilograms of cocaine base
• Four firearms, including a stolen handgun, an AK-47-style rifle equipped with a large capacity magazine, and a 12-gauge shotgun
• Ammunition and magazines

Solorzano was charged in a four-count superseding complaint with possessing fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine base with intent to distribute it, possessing firearms in furtherance of his drug trafficking crimes, and unlawfully possessing firearms as a previously convicted felon.

Following the charges in the superseding complaint, another search warrant revealed found more narcotics in Solorzano’s apartment, officials said.

According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, if convicted, Solorzano faces life in prison and millions of dollars in fines.