Authorities say a Merrick couple ran a high-volume drug dealing operation and that they had more than 200 oxycodone pills, cocaine, fentanyl and a brown substance believed to be heroin inside their Meadowbrook Road home.

Kenneth Riggio, 59, and his wife, 53-year-old Faith, are also accused of having scales, empty plastic bags and nearly $150,000 in cash in their home, which is in close proximity to two schools and a day care center.

Faith works as a special-education aide in the North Merrick School District. She has been placed on administrative leave.

Nassau Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder says Riggio left the NYPD in 1985 after four years, but he didn't know why.

"But I guess now we can surmise why," he said.

Riggio has a long criminal history that includes drug offenses and assault. He is currently on probation for a DWI.

Authorities say the latest investigation began as a routine parole check-in. Officials say the couple was sitting down for dinner when parole officers went inside. They say drugs were out in plain sight.

MORE: Police: Potentially illegal substances removed from Merrick home

The couple's attorney says the oxycodone is a legal prescription. But as for the other drugs, the attorney says, "We'll take that up with the jury."

Faith, who has no prior criminal history, was held on $50,000 bond. Riggio was held on $500,000 bond.