Police vehicle during investigation - file photo — Police vehicle during investigation - File Photo

OCEAN COUNTY, NJ—Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer has announced the arrest of 60-year-old Margaret Whalen of Lacey Township.

Whalen faces several serious charges including operating a controlled substance facility and employing a juvenile in a drug distribution scheme.

The investigation began in March 2024 after the Lacey Township Police Department was notified by the Division of Child Protection and Permanency of potential illegal activities at Whalen’s residence on Elwood Street. This led to a search on March 13, where detectives from both the Lacey Township Police and the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit discovered multiple jars of suspected psilocybin mushrooms. Subsequent lab analysis confirmed the presence of psilocybin.

Further investigations revealed that Whalen was not only manufacturing and distributing psilocybin mushrooms but was also involving a minor in these illegal activities. At the time of these offenses, Whalen was the legal guardian of three minors who lived with her, adding to the gravity of her actions.

On June 4, 2024, Whalen was officially charged with maintaining or operating a controlled dangerous substance facility, manufacturing psilocybin mushrooms, possession with intent to distribute, simple possession, employing a juvenile in drug distribution, and two counts of endangering the welfare of a child.

She was arrested the following day and is currently held at Ocean County Jail pending a detention hearing. The case continues to be a significant point of concern due to its implications on child welfare and drug distribution within the community.

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