OCEAN COUNTY, NJ – A comprehensive month-long investigation has culminated in the arrest of three individuals charged with various drug distribution offenses in Ocean County. The collaborative effort involved the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force and the Berkeley Township Police Department, underscoring the commitment of local law enforcement to combat the spread of illegal narcotics in the community.
William Manser, 44, and Jaquelynn Smith, 33, of Berkeley Township, along with Justina Candelaria, 44, of Barnegat, were identified as key figures in a narcotics distribution network operating from a residence in Berkeley Township. The investigation, which incorporated both stationary and mobile surveillance techniques, revealed significant drug trafficking activities linked to the trio.
On March 20, 2024, detectives observed Manser and Candelaria leaving the implicated residence and detained them for further investigation. Candelaria was found in possession of approximately one ounce of methamphetamine, while Manser was discovered to have crack cocaine. The execution of a court-authorized search warrant by the Ocean County Regional SWAT Team at the residence led to the seizure of six ounces of methamphetamine, heroin, crack cocaine, MDMA, and drug paraphernalia. Smith was arrested at the residence during the search.
Manser and Smith face charges including possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and crack cocaine, among other drug-related offenses. Candelaria’s charges include possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and wandering to obtain or distribute a controlled dangerous substance. Manser and Smith were released due to New Jersey Bail Reform guidelines, while Candelaria remains detained on unrelated charges.
