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Ramon Morillo, 39, of Fort Lee; Brandon Morillo, 31, of Lodi; and Joseph Diaz, 34, of Fort Lee, were arrested on Thursday, Nov. 7, following a months-long investigation conducted by the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotic Task Force, Bergen County Prosecutor Mark Musella said.
The investigation began in July 2024, when detectives identified Morillo as the alleged leader of a drug trafficking ring distributing dangerous narcotics across Bergen County and parts of New York.
Detectives say the operation involved large quantities of counterfeit prescription pills suspected to contain fentanyl—a synthetic opioid driving overdose rates nationwide. In simultaneous raids, task force members, along with the Bergen County Regional SWAT Team, seized approximately 28,700 fentanyl-laced pills, 412 grams of cocaine, 82 grams of methamphetamine pills, and eight pounds of marijuana.
Two firearms were also seized, including an unserialized and untraceable “ghost gun,” which can be assembled without background checks and has become increasingly common in illegal trafficking. Authorities estimate the cash value of the drugs and paraphernalia seized at nearly $395,000, all confiscated from the suspects’ homes.
The suspects face multiple charges, including intent to distribute fentanyl-laced pills and other narcotics, money laundering, and weapons possession. Joseph Diaz faces the most serious charges, including first-degree possession with intent to distribute cocaine and second-degree intent to distribute marijuana.
Prosecutor Musella thanked local law enforcement agencies, including the Lodi, Fort Lee, Garfield, and Elmwood Park Police Departments, for their critical assistance in the investigation. He reminded the public that these charges are accusations and that the defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
The investigation remains active as authorities continue to target drug trafficking in Bergen County.
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