FBI Surveillance Operation Results in Arrest and Manhunt

NEWARK, NJ—Special Agent in Charge Weysan Dun announced today the arrest of Bryant Benitez, age 25, of Washington, D.C., and seeks the public’s help in locating a second suspect, Alberto Chavez, age 29, of Silver Spring, Maryland. Both men are being charged with the possession and distribution of approximately four kilograms of powder cocaine.

The men were observed with the cocaine by FBI agents and the New Jersey National Guard Counter-drug Task Force during a surveillance operation at the Vince Lombardi service area on the New Jersey Turnpike between Interchange 18E/18W in Ridgefield  Borough, New Jersey at approximately noon today. Agents approached Benitez and took him into custody and are currently seeking Chavez. Agents seized the vehicle rented by Benitez and Chavez, along with the almost four kilograms of cocaine inside, which has an approximate street value of a half million dollars.

Chavez is described as follows (photo below):                     

Height: 5’8”                                                                            
Weight: 180 lbs.
Hair: Short and dark
Complexion: Light skinned                                         

Additionally, Chavez is originally from Paraguay and speaks Spanish and English well. He may have contacts in Queens, New York. 

A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, every defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. 

Special Agent in Charge Weysan Dun thanks the New Jersey State Police and all local agencies who responded for their assistance in this matter. Anyone who thinks they have seen Chavez is asked to contact the FBI at 973-792-3000. Although Chavez is not known to be violent, the public is asked not to approach or attempt to apprehend him themselves.