Fairfield (NJ) The Fairfield Police Department announces the arrest of Paul Rankin, Jr (30) of Denville, NJ on drug related charges following a motor vehicle stop on May 17, 2023. On that date at approximately 9:07am, Corporal Jeffrey Dean was travelling on Route 80 westbound,working as part of a drug interdiction detail when he observed a gray minivan pass him, with the driver allegedly not wearing a seatbelt. Corporal Dean conducted a motor vehicle stop to investigate further, and found Rankin, Jr to be the driver.
While speaking with Rankin, Corporal Dean observed items in the vehicle in plain view that were consistent with narcotics use. Upon further questioning, it was determined that Rankin, Jr had come from purchasing heroin which was still in his car.
A search of the vehicle located the heroin, and Rankin, Jr was placed under arrest. He was transported to police headquarters for processing. Rankin, Jr was subsequently transported to the Essex County Correctional Facility in Newark to await a first appearance.
(It should be noted that the charges are merely allegations and that there is a presumption of innocence until Rankin, Jr either plead guilty or isfound guilty in a court of law)
Issued by: Officer Stacy Chiarolanza (PIO)
