Hundreds Snared in Massive Heroin Sweep

PATERSON, N.J. (AP) — Hundreds of people have been arrested in a massive heroin sweep in north Jersey that involved law enforcement agents from a dozen municipalities and four counties.

Prosecutors on Tuesday said 325 people — including more than 280 alleged users and 40 dealers — were snared during the eight-week operation that targeted Paterson-based drug operations.

Authorities also seized approximately 1,200 grams of raw heroin — enough to sell about 60,000 bags on the street — and another 12,000 bags from users. The heroin has an estimated street value of $350,000.

Authorities also seized 30 guns and over $25,000 during the operation, which involved undercover agents and surveillance.

The federal Drug Enforcement Agency says Paterson supplies more pure heroin than anywhere else in the country.

(Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed)