STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.— Another domino has fallen for a once-thriving narcotics distribution network on Staten Island, which authorities say was masterminded by a prominent caterer.

On Thursday, a man charged as a supplier for the drug network pleaded guilty to a felony drug charge, in exchange for a nine-year prison sentence.

The defendant, Kadeem Lewis, 35, of New Jersey, was indicted in June 2024 on a top count of first-degree criminal sale of a controlled substance in connection with the NYPD’s lengthy undercover drug operation.

He pleaded guilty Thursday to a lesser count of second-degree criminal sale of a controlled substance, before Justice Mario F. Mattei. The case was adjourned to Jan. 22 for sentencing.

If Lewis had been convicted at trial on the top count, he was facing a

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