A 22-year-old New Jersey resident was charged with five drug-related charges, including possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, after local police searched his home on June 7. The home search followed an investigation that began more than two months ago after a department detective received a tip that drugs were being sold illegally from the residence. Media reports do not disclose the original source of the information that led to the investigation.
After conducting a variety of undercover and surveillance operations, detectives confirmed the information, which they had originally received in March, and were subsequently able to obtain a warrant to search the suspect’s residence. According to police, items recovered during the late afternoon search included an undisclosed quantity of the prescription drugs Xanax and Suboxone as well as substances suspected to be resealable bags of marijuana and 3,4-methylenedioxy-N-methylamphetamine, which is commonly known as MDMA. Police also seized over $300 in cash and a collection of paraphernalia associated with the distribution of narcotics.
The search and seizure operation led to five charges against the suspect relating to possession of narcotics, possession of narcotics paraphernalia and possession of narcotics with intent to distribute. Arraignment in Superior Court was scheduled for June 12, and after being taken to police headquarters, the suspect was released until that time. Following the arrest, the Chief of Police praised the work of investigators in helping the department enforce anti-narcotics law and eradicate drug-related activity in neighborhoods within its jurisdiction.
Drug charges are a serious matter in the state of New Jersey, and the consequences of a conviction may range from jail time to a loss of a license. An experienced attorney can advise anyone who is faced with these charges on the legality of the search and seizure operation conducted in the case and may be able to minimize penalties for first-time offenders who are willing to enter into a diversion program.