57°
A joint investigation involving detectives from Essex and Ocean counties resulted in the arrest of four drug-dealing suspects from Newark, according to Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer.
The investigation allegedly identified a residence in Newark as being utilized by Karl Murray, 34, for purposes of storing and distributing heroin and cocaine in Ocean County, Billhimer said.
On Jan. 21, detectives from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force, Manchester Township Police Department, and Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Enforcement Unit, established surveillance on the subject residence in Newark.
A subsequent motor vehicle stop was performed on Murray’s vehicle; Murray and his two passengers, Tayiyah Jackson, 24, and Abdul Crowley, 22, both of Newark, were detained as a result.
Murray was found with approximately 100 wax folds of heroin and $2,800 in cash, Billnimer said. Detectives also located approximately 50 vials of crack cocaine in the vehicle, the prosecutor said. All three individuals were placed under arrest and transported to Manchester Township Police Department for processing, Billhimer said.
Subsequent to Murray’s arrest, detectives continued surveillance on his residence. Detectives allegedly observed John Frazier, 35, of Newark, enter the residence, exit after some time, and place two boxes in the trunk of his vehicle, Billhimer said.
A motor vehicle stop was subsequently conducted on Frazier’s vehicle. Frazier was found to be in possession of approximately 150 wax folds of heroin, Billhimer said. The boxes that Frazier placed in the vehicle contained approximately 4,250 wax folds of heroin, the prosecutor said. A .40 caliber handgun was located in the vehicle as well, Bllhimer said. Frazier was taken into custody and transported to Manchester Police Department for processing.
A court-authorized search warrant was performed on Murray’s residence and vehicle. As a result, detectives recovered numerous items from the residence indicative of narcotics distribution, and a .45 caliber handgun was located in his vehicle, Billhimer said.
The four suspects were charged with various drug and weapons violations. They were being held in the Ocean County Jail.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Lakewood and receive free news updates.
