Atlantic City Man Pleads Guilty to Drug Distribution Charge

Atlantic City, N.J. — An Atlantic City man has pleaded guilty to drug distribution and obstruction charges following two separate incidents in the World's Play Ground last year.

Last week, 43-year-old Haneef Graves entered his plea to third-degree possession of controlled dangerous substances (CDS) with the intent to distribute and fourth-degree obstruction. His agreement calls for a recommended sentence of three years in state prison, concurrent to 18 months.

Police Say Suspect Fled During Investigation

The Atlantic County Prosecutor's Office said on February 28th, 2025, Atlantic City police responded to South Tennessee Avenue for a report of criminal activity. Witnesses directed officers toward Graves, who was dressed in all black. He immediately fled, running between houses and attempting to hop a fence before officers took him into custody.

Haneef Graves of Atlantic City, NJ - Photo: Atlantic County Prosecutor's Office / Canva

Drug Transaction Led to Distribution Charge

Then on October 14th, 2025, officers saw Graves conduct a hand-to-hand transaction with a woman, handing her a small white rock consistent with cocaine, in exchange for cash. A search turned up three grams of cocaine, a wax fold containing powder, and $10 in cash from the illegal sale.

Sentencing is scheduled for July 29th.

Chris Coleman is a South Jersey native and has been a cornerstone of the Atlantic City radio market since 1998. He serves as Brand Manager for WPG Talk Radio 95.5 and afternoon on-air personality for Cat Country 107.3. A five-time President's Circle award winner and Townsquare Media's 2024 Content Creator of the Year, Chris covers news, events, and stories of interest across Southern New Jersey. Story tips: chris.coleman@townsquaremedia.com