66°
A multi-agency investigation identified a residence in South Toms River and a residence in Brick Township, as allegedly being utilized by Octavaeous Jenkins, 49, to store and distribute cocaine, according to Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer.
Additionally, the investigation allegedly identified a residence in Long Branch, as being utilized by Ralph Durand, 56, Krystal Villano, 36, Emily Durand, 53 and Jaiden Durand, 18, to store and distribute cocaine, Billhimer said.
Detectives initiated surveillance on the residences in South Toms River, Brick Township and Long Branch.
On May 9, 2023, detectives reportedly observed Jenkins meeting with Durand in Monmouth County. Jenkins and Durand were detained and found to be in possession of approximately one kilogram of cocaine, the prosecutor said. Jenkins and Durand were placed under arrest, he said.
Multiple court-authorized search warrants were then executed on all of the residences. As a result, law enforcement seized – in combination from all three residences – approximately 1.25 kilograms of cocaine, $56,000 cash, 20 grams of crack cocaine and 50 doses of heroin, Billhimer sid.
Emily Durand, Jaiden Durand and Krystal Villano were placed under arrest at the residence in Long Branch, he said.
Additionally, detectives seized approximately $488,522 in personal banking accounts belonging to Ralph Durand and Krystal Villano, believed to be related to their drug distribution network, Billhimer said.
All five suspects were charged with numerous drug offenses.
Octavaeous Jenkins was taken to the Ocean County Jail, where he is currently lodged pending a detention hearing.
Ralph Durand was taken to the Monmouth County Jail, where he is currently lodged pending a detention hearing.
The other three suspects were issued summonses for future court appearances.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Edison and receive free news updates.
