Manchester, NJ – A coordinated multi-agency investigation in Ocean County has culminated in the arrest of six individuals and the confiscation of a massive stash of narcotics and cash from a Manchester residence. The operation, which spanned several months, targeted a large-scale drug distribution network and ended with a dramatic raid on August 25.
A Successful Multi-Agency Operation
The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force, along with several local police departments and the Ocean County Regional SWAT Team, executed a court-approved warrant after confirming the suspects’ location through extensive surveillance. The raid resulted in the seizure of a formidable quantity of drugs and roughly $140,000 in cash.
- Approximately 121 pounds of marijuana seized
- 100 pounds of THC products
- 75 pounds of cannabis concentrate
- 20 pounds of psychedelic mushrooms
- 2 pounds of methamphetamine
- 7 sheets of LSD
- 6 ounces of MDMA
- 40 grams of cocaine
Details of the Arrests and Charges
The individuals apprehended without incident were:
- Giovanni Arroyave, 30, Manchester
- Giorgio Arroyave, 27, Manchester
- Paul Saryan, 29, Pine Brook
- Hunter Penz, 23, Medford
- Rhianna Noonan, 22, Bridgewater
- Ryan Verlie, 26, Bayville (issued summons)
Charges filed against the suspects include possession with intent to distribute multiple controlled substances, such as marijuana, hashish, LSD, methamphetamine, and MDMA. Additional charges involve financial facilitation and conspiracy. Most individuals were released under New Jersey’s bail reform rules following their booking at the Ocean County Jail, with Ryan Verlie awaiting his first court appearance.
Collaboration Leads to Significant Disruption of Drug Activities
Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer praised the collaborative effort, stating that the operation highlights the effectiveness of coordinated law enforcement work in combatting drug trafficking in the region.
“This was a successful joint operation involving multiple law enforcement agencies across Ocean County. Our collective efforts led to the seizure of a significant quantity of narcotics and a substantial cash forfeiture, disrupting the distribution of these illegal substances in our communities,” said Prosecutor Billhimer.
The agencies involved in the investigation and raid included:
- Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force and Asset Forfeiture Unit
- Manchester and Berkeley Police Departments
- Ocean County Sheriff’s K-9 Unit
- Aberdeen Police
- Ocean County Regional SWAT Team
What This Means for the Manchester Community
This significant seizure and the arrests mark a strong stance by law enforcement in reducing drug-related activity within Manchester and surrounding areas. The operation not only removes a large volume of illegal substances from circulation but also signals a warning to those engaged in such activities.
- The scale of narcotics seized underlines the extent of underground drug distribution networks in the area.
- The cash forfeiture represents the financial impact such operations aim to dismantle.
- Continued vigilance and cooperation among law enforcement agencies are key to sustaining community safety.
What do you think about this drug bust? Have you noticed increased law enforcement activity in your community? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
