Brick, NJ – A healthcare worker was arrested on charges of stealing narcotics from her workplace, the Vascular Institute at Atlantic Medical Imaging, following a tip-off and subsequent investigation by the Street Crimes Unit (SCU). The suspect, identified as Lauren Scholz, 37, from Brick, was apprehended on Friday, January 26.
The case unfolded when the SCU received an anonymous tip on Thursday, January 25, about the theft at the healthcare facility located at 495 Jack Martin Blvd, near Brick Hospital. Upon investigation, the SCU, in collaboration with patrol units, confronted the management of the Vascular Institute, leading to the discovery of missing narcotics.
Authorities reported the loss of one hundred flip-top vials of Fentanyl and forty syringes filled with Hydromorphone (Dilaudid). The investigation further led to the arrest of Scholz and the recovery of the stolen narcotics.
While in custody at Brick Police Headquarters, Scholz was found in possession of one ounce of Cocaine and various drug paraphernalia. She confessed to the narcotics theft and faces multiple charges, including theft, possession of Fentanyl, Hydromorphone (Dilaudid), Cocaine, and drug paraphernalia.
Following her arrest and processing, Scholz was released on a summons, pending a future court appearance. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about drug security and employee conduct within healthcare institutions.