Traffic stop leads to drug and firearm arrests in lakewood
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Traffic stop leads to drug and firearm arrests in Lakewood

BRICK TOWNSHIP, NJ — A routine traffic stop conducted by the Brick Township Police Street Crimes Unit on January 8 uncovered drugs, a defaced firearm, and other evidence, leading to the arrests of two individuals and the seizure of narcotics and weapons.

Officers followed a suspicious vehicle spotted near Lanes Mill Road, stopping it in Lakewood for multiple traffic violations. The driver was identified as Kayshon D. Johnson of Brick Township, with Raul Mendez Cervantes Jr. of Lakewood and a juvenile also inside the vehicle.

A search of the vehicle, assisted by the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department K-9 unit, revealed approximately 39 grams of crack cocaine, a small quantity of soft cocaine, a loaded defaced .40 caliber Ruger handgun with its serial number scratched off, and additional evidence including prescription ledger blanks, a digital scale, and another loaded magazine.

Johnson was charged with multiple offenses, including distribution of controlled dangerous substances, possession of drug paraphernalia, unlawful possession of a weapon, possession of a defaced firearm, and endangering the welfare of a minor. Cervantes was arrested for outstanding warrants from several jurisdictions. Both were transported to the Ocean County Jail.

Chief David Forrester praised the coordinated efforts to combat drug trafficking and illegal firearms possession, reiterating the department’s commitment to protecting the community.

Chris Quigley

Chris Quigley

Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

As a member of the Shore News Network editorial team, Quigley works closely with public officials, community leaders, first responders, and local organizations to provide factual coverage of breaking news, municipal government, public policy, and events affecting New Jersey residents. Her work highlights both major developments and the local stories that shape communities across the state.

Quigley is committed to responsible journalism, emphasizing accuracy, source verification, and transparency in every story she reports. She strives to present information in a clear and accessible manner, helping readers better understand the issues, decisions, and events that impact their daily lives.

Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

Experience and interests: Criminal Justice, Business, Animal Care, Entertainment, Lottery News, Local News