Robert 'True' Britt is already serving a state prison term for dealing drugs and now faces federal charges Watch video
TRENTON -- An Asbury Park man accused of running a heroin distribution ring in Monmouth and Ocean counties while serving time in prison was indicted Thursday on federal drug charges.
Robert Britt, 44, of Asbury Park. (NJ Department of Corrections) Robert "True" Britt, 44, faces a count of conspiracy to distribute heroin, U.S. Attorney Paul J. Fishman said.
Britt is currently serving a seven-year state prison term for drug distribution and has been in custody since March 2013.
Britt was identified in March 2014 as the kingpin of the distribution network when federal authorities arrested 21 people, authorities said.
As he prepared to serve his state prison term in 2013, Britt transferred day-to-day operations of the heroin ring to Rufus Young, 43, of Asbury Park, authorities said. Young has pleaded guilty and was sentenced in December to serve 15 years in prison.
Britt continued to coordinate with Young and run the heroin network from prison using smuggled cell phones, authorities said.
"During those conversations, Britt instructed Young on how to operate their drug business, including methods for developing new heroin customers, avoiding detection by law enforcement, and identifying new suppliers," authorities said.
The 19 others arrested in the drug bust have already been convicted, authorities said.
Thomas Shannon, 37, of Jersey City, was identified as the primary supplier to Britt and Young, authorities said. Shannon was convicted by a jury in May for his role and faces up to life in prison.
Britt had previously been sentenced in 2007 to 12 years in state prison for drug distribution. He was released after serving 3 1/2 years, according to state records.
Alex Napoliello may be reached at anapoliello@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @alexnapoNJ. Find NJ.com on Facebook.