A retired New York City narcotics detective has admitted to having a role in a large-scale heroin ring that operated in Nassau, Queens and Brooklyn, Nassau County prosecutors said.
Karan Young, 50, of Laurelton, Queens, pleaded guilty Monday before Judge Robert Schwartz to a felony count of fourth-degree conspiracy.
“This retired narcotics detective knew the deadly impact of heroin yet she helped her boyfriend profit from dealing poison in our communities,” Nassau County District Attorney Madeline Singas said. “Anyone who enables the drug traffickers who fuel this epidemic should expect to be met with aggressive prosecution.”
Prosecutors said Young was implicated during the investigation of a Hempstead-based heroin dealer in 2016. That dealer was supplied by Leigh Jackson, who authorities described as Young’s longtime romantic partner. Young assisted Jackson in his narcotics distribution business by collecting money for him, according to investigators.
During her plea, she admitted to providing Jackson with a mini-NYPD shield and PBA card to help him avoid detection by law enforcement while he transported narcotics, the district attorney said.
Young was one of 14 defendants rounded up as a result of the 15-month investigation dubbed Operation Tri-County Traffic. Authorities said the dealers sold more than 23,000 doses of heroin a week.
Young is expected to be sentenced to probation when she is due back in court Aug. 27. Jackson was sentenced to seven years in prison after pleading guilty to attempted operating as a major trafficker last year.
