Three ocean county men charged in narcotics investigation

TOMS RIVER, N.J. — Three Ocean County men have been charged with multiple drug offenses following a three-month investigation into narcotics distribution, Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced Tuesday.

Detectives from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force, along with several local police departments, identified a Beachwood residence allegedly used by Elijah Metellus, 20, to store and distribute cocaine, ecstasy/MDMA, psilocybin, and marijuana.

On February 4, authorities arrested Metellus after conducting surveillance at his workplace. A search of his vehicle yielded approximately two grams of cocaine. That same day, investigators observed Dominic McGriff, 43, of Beachwood, entering the targeted residence before allegedly conducting a hand-to-hand drug transaction with Robert Labocetta, 62, in Toms River. Both men were later arrested in separate traffic stops, with McGriff found in possession of approximately 11 grams of cocaine.

A court-authorized search of the Beachwood residence led to the seizure of 10 pounds of marijuana, 192 grams of psilocybin, eight grams of cocaine, ecstasy/MDMA pills, drug distribution paraphernalia, a 9mm handgun, ammunition, and $13,000 in cash.

Metellus, McGriff, and Labocetta face multiple charges, including drug possession, distribution, and conspiracy. Metellus and McGriff remain in custody pending detention hearings, while Labocetta was released on a summons ahead of a court appearance.

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