NORTH BERGEN AND BEYOND – North Bergen resident Kareem Burke, aka “Biggs,” a founder of Roc-A-Fella Records, pled guilty yesterday in Manhattan federal court to one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with the intent to distribute, more than 100 kilograms of marijuana, announced Preet Bharara, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York. Burke was charged in connection with his participation in a “massive” marijuana trafficking ring, according to the United States Drug Enforcement Administration.
According to the U.S. DEA, 50 people were arrested in late 2010 for their alleged role in three separate but interconnected marijuana trafficking cells. 10 of the 50 arrested have entered guilty pleas.
Recovered in Burke’s North Bergen residence was the remains of a marijuana growing operation, as well as approximately $15,000 cash. Burke now faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison, and a maximum sentence of 40 years. Under his plea agreement, Burke is also required to forfeit $660,000, his residence, his 2010 BMW, as well as the $15,000 cash that was seized. Burke is scheduled to be sentenced on May 18 at 12 p.m. the U.S. DEA said.
“With Kareem Burke’s guilty plea today, another member of this sprawling marijuana trafficking ring stands convicted,” said Bharara. “We will continue to pursue and punish those who traffic in illegal drugs.” –Stephen LaMarca