Landlord accused of using chloroform to drug and assault tenants

Prosecutors say a New Jersey landlord allegedly used chloroform to drug tenants and sexually assaulted them; he has been indicted on multiple charges and pleaded not guilty at arraignment.

Prosecutors say a New Jersey landlord allegedly drugged tenants with chloroform and sexually assaulted them over a period of months. Authorities began investigating in December 2024 after a tenant reported an incident. The landlord, identified as Craig Cardella, has been indicted on multiple counts, including first-degree kidnapping and several third-degree charges. He pleaded not guilty at an arraignment on January 20, 2026. Known details: - Prosecutors allege two male tenants were targeted and that complaints led investigators to open the case in December 2024. - Cardella was indicted on 17 counts of first-degree kidnapping, 18 counts each of several third-degree charges including aggravated criminal sexual contact, invasion of privacy and endangering another person, and one count of fourth-degree stalking. - Prosecutors say a search of the home recovered bottles identified as chloroform, prescription sleep medication, masks, and recording devices. - Cardella pleaded not guilty at arraignment; the Burlington County Prosecutor's Office has asked potential victims to contact detectives, according to the office. Summary: The allegations are under active investigation and have resulted in a multi-count indictment against the accused landlord. Undetermined at this time.