West New York Dispatcher, Retired Detective and County Corrections Officer Arrested in Major Narcotics Bust – Echoes of Corruption Past

HUDSON COUNTY, NJ — In an operation led by the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office, a former West New York police detective, a current dispatcher, and a Hudson County corrections officer were among seven individuals charged in connection with a large-scale narcotics ring. The coordinated raids executed on July 17 resulted in the seizure of:

Over 4 kg of suspected cocaine Two handguns, seven vehicles More than $70,000 in cash A narcotics production lab—street value estimated at $150,000 

Arrests included:

Alfredo Diaz (50), of Union City – alleged ringleader, charged with multiple counts including producing and distributing cocaine, weapons charges, and money laundering.

Ileana Hernandez (56), dispatcher – charged with official misconduct, conspiracy, and drug distribution.

Daniel Diaz (28), of West New York – drug distribution charges near schools/public property.

Thomas Mannion (60), retired detective and longtime PBA president – charged with conspiracy.

Marquis Santiago (33), corrections officer – conspiracy charge.

Cristian Cortez (55), Englewood – conspiracy charge. 

West New York Police Director Henry Codina confirmed Hernandez has been suspended and the department is fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation  .

🕵️ A Troubling Pattern: Past Political Corruption in WNYPD

This scandal comes amid haunting parallels to the 1990s corruption scandal within the very department these individuals served.

Richard Rivera, a West New York patrolman from 1990–2002, blew the whistle on rampant graft and bribery. His disclosures prompted a high-profile federal lawsuit and a $675,000 settlement for retaliation and wrongful practices  . Chief Alexander V. Oriente, later convicted of racketeering and corruption in 2000, led a system of bribes that stretched back decades. Oriente and other officers allegedly extorted local businesses for gambling, alcohol, and drug operations—remarkably continuing into the administration of future Mayor Albio Sires.

Decades ago, corruption in West New York centered on political payoffs and systemic graft ⎯ now, it appears to have mutated into abuse of power intersecting with organized narcotics trade. That this involves both civilian and sworn personnel, including a corrections officer and ex-detective, showcases an alarming continuity.

✅ Restoring Public Trust: What’s at Stake

These recent arrests should trigger a rigorous reexamination of internal oversight in police and correctional facilities. Citizens deserve transparency: how was a dispatcher and a member of the PBA able to leverage their roles for criminal gain? Comparative cases like Rivera’s expose weaknesses in whistleblower protections and retaliation barriers; these must be addressed to prevent recurrence.

⚖️ Moving Forward: Accountability and Reform

This bust emphasizes two vital priorities for West New York and Hudson County:

Strengthen internal surveillance and disciplinary protocols within law enforcement agencies. Empower whistleblowers with protections and incentives, drawing lessons from Rivera’s case and the Oriente scandal.

As more details emerge from the ongoing HCPO investigation, the community must stay informed and demand comprehensive reform—not just after scandals, but to prevent them.

Stay tuned for updates as this case progresses. What steps do you think should be taken—audits, leadership changes, policy reforms? Send your thoughts.