Linden, NJ – A two-month investigation by the Linden Police Department has culminated in the recovery of an illegal firearm, known as a “ghost” gun, and the arrest of a Union man on numerous charges related to weapons and narcotics distribution.
On Thursday, January 18, detectives from the Linden Police Department Narcotics Bureau, in collaboration with the Union County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Task Force, executed a search warrant in the 800 block of Hobson Street in Union. Luiz Melendez, 53, was apprehended outside the residence without any issues.
The search of the home led to the discovery of an illegal “ghost” gun, an illegal high-capacity magazine, and quantities of substances suspected to be cocaine and MDMA. Additionally, over $85,000 in cash was seized from the property.
Melendez faces multiple weapons-related charges, including third-degree possession of a “ghost” gun and fourth-degree possession of a high-capacity magazine. He is also charged with second-degree possession of a weapon while committing a Controlled Dangerous Substance (CDS) offense and being a certain person not allowed to possess a weapon. Furthermore, Melendez is accused of second and third-degree offenses related to the possession and distribution of the suspected narcotics. He has been taken to the Essex County Jail and is awaiting a court appearance in Superior Court.