FLEMINGTON, NJ—Malik D. Johnston, also known as Pippin J. Folk, 48, of Flemington, has pled guilty to a charge of second-degree distribution of cocaine. The plea was entered today before Judge Christopher J. Garrenger at the Hunterdon County Superior Court.

Prosecutor Renée M. Robeson of Hunterdon County reported that the plea agreement includes a recommended sentence of five years in state prison. Additionally, Johnston has agreed to forfeit a motor vehicle and U.S. currency that were seized during the narcotics investigation. He will also pay restitution to the Flemington Democratic Club, relating to a theft charge from June 2023 that will be dismissed as part of this global resolution of his cases.

The charges stemmed from a joint investigation conducted by the Hunterdon County Prosecutor’s Office’s Narcotics Task Force and the Flemington Borough Police Department. During January and February 2023, Johnston was involved in selling substantial quantities of cocaine and methamphetamine to an undercover officer in Raritan Township. Further evidence showed his possession with intent to distribute these substances within Flemington.

Johnston’s sentencing is scheduled for August 30, 2024. He is represented by attorneys Christopher J. Vaccaro and Daniel W. Frascella III, with First Assistant Prosecutor Joseph Paravecchia representing the State.

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