member of the Latin Kings gang has been arrested on cocaine charges following a three-month investigation by the Somerset County Prosecutor's Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force, the Somerset County Prosecutor's Office Gangs and Guns Task Force, the North Plainfield Police Department and the Manville Police Department K-9 Unit. Roland Melendez, 23, of Lincoln Place, was charged with possession of cocaine with intent to distribute and possession of cocaine.
At approximately 8:15 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 12, officers executed a search warrant at Melendez's residence, said Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne Forrest.Members of the Task Force seized approximately ten grams of cocaine from Melendez, Forrest said. Also seized was one bag of cocaine hidden in Chavez's jacket, according to the prosecutor.Task Force members also disvovered several items indicating Melendez's membership with the Latin Kings Gang and photographs of Melendez displaying gang signs known to the Task Force members, Forrest said.Street value of the cocaine seized is valued at approximately $1,200. Melendez was lodged in the Somerset County Jail pending bail to be set. Chavez was released on his own recognizance.
