JACKSON, N.J. — Seven individuals have been arrested following “Operation RU Pharm,” a months-long undercover investigation targeting a social media-based drug trafficking network involving Rutgers University students, Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone announced Thursday.
The multi-agency investigation, led by the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Task Force in collaboration with the Rutgers University Police Department, New Brunswick Police Department, and Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office, uncovered a private social media platform created by a former Rutgers student. The platform allowed drug distributors to post menus and solicit buyers from within the Rutgers community.
The operation resulted in the seizure of significant quantities of marijuana, LSD, cocaine, psilocybin mushrooms, Adderall, Xanax, cash, and a firearm.
Authorities said the investigation exposed a network where only individuals with verified Rutgers affiliation could access the platform to browse and purchase drugs.
The seven individuals charged are:
- Anudeep Revuri, 23, of North Brunswick, accused of being the leader of the drug trafficking network, faces charges including first-degree Leader of a Drug Trafficking Network and multiple counts of conspiracy to commit drug distribution.
- Joshua Duffy, 20, of Somerset, charged with second-degree Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance, multiple third-degree counts of distribution and possession, money laundering, and intent to distribute drug paraphernalia.
- Zachary Petersen, 22, of Red Bank, faces charges including multiple third-degree counts of distribution, possession, money laundering, and intent to distribute drug paraphernalia.
- Catherine Tierney, 23, of Shrewsbury, charged with multiple third-degree counts of distribution, possession, money laundering, and intent to distribute drug paraphernalia.
- David Nudelman, 20, of Jackson, charged with second-degree Possession of a Firearm while committing a CDS offense, second-degree drug distribution, and multiple additional charges related to distribution and possession.
- Donovin Williams, 22, of Kingston, N.Y., faces charges including drug distribution in a school zone, additional third-degree drug distribution and possession counts, and intent to distribute paraphernalia.
- Noa Lisimachio, 21, of New York, N.Y., charged with third-degree Resisting Arrest and Obstruction of Justice.
The investigation remains active, and authorities are urging anyone with additional information to contact the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Task Force at (732) 745-3300.