NEWARK, NJ—Eight individuals linked to the “793 Bloods,” a faction of the larger Bloods national gang, face charges related to drug trafficking in Newark, according to U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger. The group is accused of distributing fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine within the city.
Charged with conspiracy to distribute these substances are Muta Bell, 33; Ibn Foster, 19; Xavion Miller, 19; Corey Wade, 32; Bazair White, 20; Yusef Milliron, 28; and Alshakur Robinson, 29, all residents of Newark. In a separate but related complaint, Robert Franklin, 29, also from Newark, faces charges for ammunition possession by a convicted felon, distribution and possession of cocaine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Today, Bell, Foster, White, and Robinson were arraigned before U.S. Magistrate José R. Almonte. Bell, Foster, and Robinson have been detained, while White was released on a $100,000 unsecured bond. Wade and Franklin, currently held in state custody, will appear in court at a later date. Miller and Milliron remain at large.
The investigation, which included extensive surveillance and controlled narcotics purchases, revealed an open-air narcotics market operated by the defendants around South Orange and Isabella avenues. During one operation, Franklin was arrested shortly after a suspected drug deal, found with cocaine base, a homemade firearm, and ammunition.
The conspiracy charge could lead to a maximum of 40 years in prison and a $5 million fine, with a mandatory minimum of five years. Franklin faces multiple charges with potential sentences ranging up to life imprisonment, underscoring the severity of the offenses.
The investigation was spearheaded by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, along with the Newark Police Department and support from the U.S. Marshals Service. This case highlights ongoing efforts to combat drug-related crime and violence in Newark communities.