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Margaret Whalen, 60, entered a guilty plea on Monday, Nov. 18, Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley Billhimer said in a news release. She pleaded guilty to possession of psilocin mushrooms with intent to distribute, employing a juvenile in a drug distribution scheme, and endangering the welfare of a child.
The charges came from an investigation when Lacey Township police received a tip from the state Division of Child Protection and Permanency. Investigators said Whalen was using her Elwood Street residence to grow and distribute psychedelic mushrooms.
Detectives executed a search warrant at the home on Wednesday, Mar. 13, and seized several jars containing suspected mushrooms. Laboratory tests confirmed on Thursday, May 23, that the substances were psilocin mushrooms.
According to investigators, Whalen sold the mushrooms while serving as the legal guardian for three children who lived in the home. Prosecutors said she involved one child in her drug-dealing operation.
Whalen was arrested on Wednesday, June 5, and was released from the Ocean County Jail on bail. Prosecutors said Whalen faces up to five years in state prison.
Sentencing was scheduled for Friday, Jan. 10, 2025.
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