An undercover drug investigation led to multiple cocaine sales, a raid on a Toms River residence and now a guilty plea
Toms River, NJ — A Toms River man has admitted to dealing cocaine following an undercover narcotics investigation that documented multiple drug sales and led authorities to a residence prosecutors say was being used to store and distribute cocaine.
Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that Keith Morse, 38, pleaded guilty Monday to possession of more than one-half ounce but less than five ounces of cocaine with intent to distribute.
The charge stems from a series of incidents that occurred between November and February in Toms River.
Prosecutors said Morse sold cocaine to an undercover detective on multiple occasions during a joint investigation conducted by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force and several local law enforcement agencies.
According to authorities, the total amount of cocaine sold exceeded one-half ounce.
Investigators also identified a residence on Walnut Street in Toms River that they alleged was being used by Morse to store and distribute cocaine.
On Feb. 6, detectives conducting surveillance observed Morse entering a residence in Toms River before taking him into custody without incident.
Following the arrest, officers executed a court-authorized search warrant at the residence.
Authorities said the search resulted in the seizure of additional quantities of cocaine as well as materials commonly associated with drug distribution.
Morse was charged and transported to the Ocean County Jail. He was later released under New Jersey’s bail reform system.
At sentencing, scheduled for Aug. 21, prosecutors said they will seek a 10-year sentence in New Jersey State Prison.
Charges against co-defendant Philip Tarver remain pending.
The investigation involved the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Asset Forfeiture Unit, Toms River Township Police Department, Brick Township Police Department, South Toms River Police Department, Stafford Township Police Department Drug Enforcement Unit, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit and Ocean County Regional SWAT Team, among others.
As with all criminal proceedings involving pending matters, co-defendant Tarver is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
Key Points
- A Toms River man pleaded guilty to cocaine distribution charges.
- Prosecutors said he sold cocaine to an undercover detective on multiple occasions.
- The State plans to seek a 10-year prison sentence at his August sentencing.
