Three Hoboken residents were taken into custody after police responding to a late-night disturbance inside an apartment recovered a loaded handgun along with crack cocaine, heroin, and drug-related items, authorities said.
- Tahjmir Mitchell, 21, Justin Villafane, 21, and Thomas Bates, 38, were arrested after police responded to a March 24 dispute at an apartment on the 200 block of Harrison Street.
- Officers recovered a loaded Ruger semi-automatic handgun, 24 bags of suspected crack cocaine, six wax folds of heroin, 20 wax folds of suspected heroin, and drug paraphernalia.
- Mitchell and Villafane face narcotics charges, including possession with intent to distribute, while Bates faces several weapons charges as well as resisting arrest and obstruction.
Late-Night Dispute Prompts Police Response
Officers were sent to the 200 block of Harrison Street at approximately 11:30 p.m. on March 24 after reports of a physical confrontation inside an apartment. Information provided to police indicated that one of the people involved in the dispute had reportedly been displaying a handgun, according to public safety spokeswoman Marci Rubin.
When officers arrived at the residence, they encountered three men and began investigating the situation. During the response, police located both illegal narcotics and a firearm.
Three Hoboken Residents Identified
Authorities identified the individuals as Tahjmir Mitchell, 21, Justin Villafane, 21, and Thomas Bates, 38, all of Hoboken.
Police said Thomas Bates was the individual carrying the weapon. Officers recovered a loaded Ruger semi-automatic handgun, which was taken into police custody.
Drugs Recovered During Investigation
During the investigation, officers detained Tahjmir Mitchell. Police reported that Mitchell had 24 bags containing suspected crack cocaine, six wax folds of heroin, and drug paraphernalia in his possession.
The investigation at the apartment also led to the arrest of Justin Villafane, who authorities said had 20 wax folds believed to contain heroin.
Charges Filed Against the Suspects
Mitchell and Villafane each face several narcotics-related charges, including possession with intent to distribute controlled dangerous substances. Police also said Mitchell faces additional charges related to weapons.
Authorities charged Bates with multiple firearm-related offenses, including unlawful possession of a handgun, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, and possession of prohibited ammunition. He also faces charges of resisting arrest and obstruction, according to police.
Suspects Taken to Hudson County Jail
Following the arrests, the three men were processed at the Hoboken Police Department and later transferred to the Hudson County Correctional Facility, officials said.
Authorities are asking anyone who witnesses criminal activity or has information about similar incidents to contact the Hoboken Police Department at (201) 420-2100.
