Photo caption: lakewood police said a routine patrol encounter with a disabled vehicle resulted in a narcotics arrest near ridge avenue and lanes mill road. — Photo caption: Lakewood police said a routine patrol encounter with a disabled vehicle resulted in a narcotics arrest near Ridge Avenue and Lanes Mill Road. Ocean County Jail

LAKEWOOD, N.J. — What began as a motorist assist for a disabled vehicle ended with a narcotics arrest early Saturday morning in Lakewood, according to police.

At approximately 1:58 a.m. on Aug. 15, a Lakewood police officer patrolling the area of Ridge Avenue and Lanes Mill Road observed a disabled vehicle with a flat tire and stopped to investigate.

The driver was identified as 42-year-old Ryan Laudisi of Brick Township. During the encounter, the officer determined Laudisi had an outstanding warrant from Ocean County. Police said the subsequent investigation led to the recovery of suspected crack cocaine and cocaine from inside the vehicle.

A Lakewood officer encountered a disabled vehicle with a flat tire during a routine patrol.
The incident occurred around 1:58 a.m. on Aug. 15 near Ridge Avenue and Lanes Mill Road.
Police identified the driver as Ryan Laudisi, 42, of Brick Township.
Officers determined Laudisi had an outstanding Ocean County warrant.
Police recovered suspected crack cocaine and cocaine from the vehicle.
Laudisi was charged with two counts of Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance.

Routine patrol leads to arrest

Laudisi was arrested and charged with two counts of Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance.

Following his arrest, he was transported to the Ocean County Jail, where he remained pending a future court appearance.

Lakewood Police Chief Gregory H. Meyer said the case illustrates the value of proactive patrol work.

“This arrest demonstrates how proactive policing and attention to detail can turn an ordinary encounter into a meaningful enforcement action,” Meyer said. “We remain committed to keeping illegal drugs off our streets and protecting our community.”

Authorities did not disclose the quantity of narcotics allegedly recovered or whether additional charges could be filed.

Where did the arrest occur?
- Near Ridge Avenue and Lanes Mill Road in Lakewood.
Why did the officer stop?
- The officer observed a disabled vehicle with a flat tire during a routine patrol.
What charges were filed?
- Two counts of Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance.
Where was the suspect taken?
- The Ocean County Jail pending a future court appearance.