Attorney General Zulima V. Farber and Division of Criminal Justice Director Gregory A. Paw announced that a Burlington County man has been charged with numerous drug-related charges including possessing a firearm while distributing controlled dangerous substances (CDS).

According to Director Paw, Anthony Petrucci, 36, of Springfield Township, Burlington County, was charged in a state grand jury indictment filed by the Division of Criminal Justice. The indictment charged Petrucci with first-degree possession with intent to distribute CDS; second-degree weapons, CDS and other offenses; two counts of second-degree distribution of a CDS; and three counts of third-degree possession of a CDS.

The Aug. 22 indictment alleges that on Jan. 5 and Feb. 14, 2006, Petrucci sold packages of just under one-ounce of Methamphetamine valued at more than $1,500 each at his residence in Burlington County. An investigation by the Division of Criminal Justice - Organized Crime and Racketeering Bureau and the New Jersey State Police determined that Petrucci possessed more than 31 ounces of Methamphetamine with the intent to distribute. The investigation further revealed that, while selling the Methamphetamine, Petrucci knowingly had a SIG semi-automatic handgun in his possession.

The investigation was coordinated by Deputy Attorney General Christine D’Elia. D’Elia presented the case to the state grand jury. First-degree crimes carry a penalty of up to 20 years in state prison and a fine of up to $200,000, second-degree crimes are punishable by up to ten years in state prison and a fine of up to $150,000; and third degree crimes carry a penalty of up to five years in state prison and a fine of up to $15,000.

The indictment, which was handed up to Mercer County Superior Court Judge Maria M. Sypek, is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

>> View Petrucci Indictment (146k pdf) plug-in