An alleged Newark gang member who authorities said was part of large network of drug dealers in a low-income housing development has been sentenced to 17-and-a-half years in prison, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced Thursday. Furad Loyal, 42, of Newark was the only defendant among 27 alleged gang members charged in the drug sale conspiracy that went to trial, authorities said. He was convicted on May 9, 2023 of drug and weapons charges related to the alleged crimes at the New Community Corporation, a nonprofit development that includes housing and other services. Loyal was acquitted …