by Manchester, NJ – A significant drug bust in Manchester has resulted in the arrest of six individuals and the seizure of an extensive stash of narcotics and cash, marking a successful crackdown on illegal drug distribution in the area. This operation, the culmination of months of meticulous investigation, highlights the commitment of multiple law enforcement agencies to combat drug trafficking.
On August 25, based on confirmed surveillance, the Ocean County Regional SWAT Team executed a court-approved warrant at a residence in Manchester, leading to the apprehension of suspects and the confiscation of a large quantity of illegal drugs and approximately $140,000 in cash.
A Coordinated Multi-Agency Operation
The operation was spearheaded by the Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer alongside the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force and Asset Forfeiture Unit. They received vital support from Manchester and Berkeley police departments, the Ocean County Sheriff’s K-9 Unit, Aberdeen police, and the county SWAT team.
Billhimer announced the bust, emphasizing the joint effort as a model of successful law enforcement collaboration.
The Massive Seizure: Details of the Narcotics and Cash Confiscated
- 121 pounds of marijuana
- 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
- Approximately $140,000 in cash
This large-scale seizure underscores both the volume of drugs being handled and the significant financial operations involved.
The Suspects and Charges
Authorities took into custody six individuals without incident:
- 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
The charges include possession with intent to distribute a variety of drugs such as marijuana, hashish, LSD, methamphetamine, and MDMA. Additional charges involve financial facilitation and conspiracy.
Most suspects were released under New Jersey’s bail reform rules after their booking at the Ocean County Jail. Notably, Ryan Verlie received a summons and is awaiting his first court appearance.
Community Impact and Law Enforcement Success
The arrest and seizure send a strong message to drug traffickers in Ocean County and nearby areas. The coordinated work across multiple jurisdictions highlights a proactive approach to disrupt narcotics networks.
“This was a successful joint operation demonstrating our commitment to keeping our communities safe from illegal drugs,” said Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer.
Looking Ahead: Future Enforcement and Community Safety
Authorities plan to continue vigorous investigations and collaborative efforts to target drug operations throughout Ocean County. The community’s safety remains a top priority, with law enforcement agencies working together to disrupt illicit drug distribution chains.
Key takeaways include:
- Successful interception of a large-scale narcotics operation
- Multi-agency collaboration essential to the bust
- Substantial financial assets seized alongside narcotics
- Multiple felony charges filed against suspects
- Ongoing commitment to enforcing drug laws and enhancing public safety
What do you think about this drug bust? Have you seen efforts like this in your community? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
