A multi-agency investigation ended with search warrants, drug seizures and multiple criminal charges in Cape May County
CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE, N.J. — A Villas man was taken into custody after a drug investigation led authorities to seize cocaine, psilocybin mushrooms and a large amount of cash during a coordinated law enforcement operation, prosecutors said.
The Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office announced the arrest of Hector L. Melendez, 31, of Villas following an investigation by the county’s Gangs, Guns and Narcotics Task Force.
According to prosecutors, investigators concluded a probe into the alleged distribution of controlled dangerous substances on Wednesday.
Authorities executed court-authorized search warrants at Melendez’s residence and on his person with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, the Lower Township Police Department and the Cape May County Regional SWAT Team.
During the searches, investigators seized more than one-half ounce of cocaine, psilocybin mushrooms, drug distribution paraphernalia and a large sum of U.S. currency, according to officials.
Melendez was charged with second-degree distribution of a controlled dangerous substance, third-degree possession of cocaine, third-degree money laundering, fourth-degree possession with intent to distribute drug paraphernalia and possession of psilocybin mushrooms.
He was processed and lodged in the Cape May County Correctional Facility, where he remains pending court proceedings.
Under New Jersey law, a conviction on a second-degree offense can carry a prison sentence of five to 10 years.
The charges are allegations, and Melendez is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
Key Points
- Authorities arrested a Villas man following a drug distribution investigation.
- Investigators seized cocaine, psilocybin mushrooms, paraphernalia and cash.
- Hector L. Melendez, 31, remains jailed pending court proceedings.