EX-TROOPER GETS 10 YEARS FOR DRUG SCAM

Former State Police trooper Brian Holmes, found guilty of teaming up
with a fellow trooper in 2002 to skim cocaine from major drug
seizures for resale, was sentenced yesterday to 10 years in prison.

Holmes could be eligible for parole after three years, according to
his lawyer, Hassen Abdellah, who called the sentence handed down by
Superior Court Judge James Heimlich in Union County "just." But as
part of that sentence, Holmes may no longer hold any public office,
Abdellah said.

Holmes declined comment through his lawyer. His family members were
present in the courtroom but made no statements. They had previously
sent numerous letters to the judge attesting to Holmes' character and
service to the community, Abdellah said.

A 14-year veteran of the State Police, Holmes was convicted of
charges including official misconduct, drug possession and drug
distribution. He was previously offered plea bargains that offered no
jail time, but rejected them.

He was implicated by his friend Moises Hernandez, 41, a state trooper
for 17 years. Hernandez admitted he stole and sold kilos of cocaine,
laundered money and got cozy with Colombian drug dealers, tipping
them off when police investigators got close. He said Holmes, 42, was
his investigative partner in two drug operations in August and
October 2002.

Assistant Prosecutor Julie Peterman said Holmes had taken five of 56
kilos of cocaine from a drug seizure for Hernandez to sell and the
pair shared the proceeds. But Holmes swore he knew nothing about any
drug distribution ring.

Abdellah had pleaded with the jurors not to convict because there was
a lack of evidence in the case against his client, saying Holmes'
only liability came from the fact that he was friends with a corrupt
cop. Hernandez and Holmes knew each other for years, and both lived
in Elizabeth.

The county prosecutor said the prison term handed down was
appropriate.

"This sentence will give Mr. Holmes a lot of time to reflect on how
he broke a sacred oath to the public and his fellow officers," said
Union County Prosecutor Theodore J. Romankow. "His greed and
corruption ruined many lives and should serve as a reminder to all
that this office will continue to aggressively prosecute those who
betray their badge."