New Haven Alders Oppose Convenience Store Reopening Bid Due to Owner's Heroin Trafficking History
Nadyar Malaka and Xiomara Tapia Rivera are attempting to reopen Ninos Market at a new location on Ferry Street in New Haven, Connecticut, facing strong opposition from Fair Haven alders. This marks their second attempt after their initial application was rejected by the Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) in June. Alder Frank Redente has formally requested another public hearing, citing new and material information regarding neighborhood safety and the applicant's conduct. Malaka, who purchased the building for the new store, was convicted in 2021 for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, receiving a four-year prison sentence. He was arrested in 2020 for his involvement in selling heroin from two Bridgeport convenience stores. Neighborhood leaders and police have previously identified the original Ninos Market location as a hotspot for drug dealing and violence, with police district manager Chris Alvarado stating that the area felt significantly safer after its closure. 
