NEWARK, N.J. – A Newark man was charged today with narcotics offenses after an authorized search revealed that he was operating a large-scale heroin mill out of his apartment, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.

Alexis Garcia Cabrera, 49, is charged by complaint with one count of possessing over one kilogram of heroin with intent to distribute. Garcia Cabrera made his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Leda Dunn Wettre in Newark federal court and was released on home detention.

According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

On May 9, 2019, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agents executed a search warrant at Garcia Cabrera’s residence and located multiple freezer-type bags containing heroin, as well as a large quantity of loose heroin that was in the processing stage. Law enforcement officers also located equipment used to process and “cut” heroin, including grinders, sifters, and chemical cutting agents, and large quantities of materials designed to package heroin for street-level distribution, including more than 1,000 glassine envelopes. Agents also located multiple “bricks” of heroin, or packages of 50 individual doses, which are intended for street-level distribution.

The count of possession of over one kilogram of heroin with intent to distribute carries a maximum penalty of life in prison, a mandatory minimum term of 10 years in prison and a $10 million fine.

U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited special agents of the DEA, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Susan A. Gibson, with the investigation leading to today’s charge.

The government is represented by Special Assistant United States Attorney Shawn Barnes of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Criminal Division in Newark.

The charge and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Defense counsel: Chester Keller Esq., First Assistant Federal Public Defender, Newark