Suarez Twins Plead Guilty to Leading Drug Trafficking Network in Atlantic City

Atlantic City, N.J. — Twin brothers Justin and Joseph Suarez, both 40, pleaded guilty Monday to leading a drug trafficking operation on South Florida Avenue, Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office said. They also faced charges of possessing handguns for unlawful purposes. In exchange for their pleas, prosecutors will recommend 28 years in prison with 14 years parole ineligibility for Joseph Suarez and 25 years with 12 years parole ineligibility for Justin Suarez. Both had faced life sentences if convicted at trial. The guilty pleas come after a November 14, 2022 investigation involving Atlantic City police, prosecutors, and the DEA. Authorities executed about 20 search warrants across Atlantic County. Investigators seized over 40,000 folds of fentanyl, $85,000 in cash, two handguns, and 5.6 ounces of crack cocaine. Joseph Suarez coordinated deliveries of crack and fentanyl, including shipments from Philadelphia. Justin Suarez managed parts of the operation while enrolled in Atlantic County Recovery Court. Several deliverymen and associates, including Arcadia Ridley and Orlando Perez, pleaded guilty and face prison sentences. Ridley stored fentanyl at her home and awaits sentencing after pleading guilty to conspiracy and weapons charges. Joseph Suarez admitted owning a handgun used to support drug distribution. Justin Suarez also admitted to possessing a stolen handgun loaded with hollow-point bullets. Their mother, Terria Acosta, pleaded guilty to facilitating criminal activity related to drug money and is awaiting sentencing.