Two Toms River residents were arrested by members of the Manchester Township Police Department’s Narcotics Enforcement Team for drug offenses after the car they were in was stopped in the western section of the township on September 17. During the stop, 23 year-olds, Christian N. Walko and Olivia Winterstein were found to be in possession of a large quantity of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.

On September 17, 2020, members of the department’s Narcotics Enforcement Team (NET) were conducting surveillance when they observed a vehicle driving on County Road 530 in the area of Valley Stream Drive. The vehicle was stopped for a motor vehicle violation and a subsequent investigation led to the search of the vehicle. During the search, detectives located and seized a large quantity of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.  The on-going investigation led to the execution of court authorized search warrants for Walko’s residence and vehicle located in Toms River.  During the searches, detectives located and seized approximately nine pounds of marijuana, four pounds of THC wax, over half pound of Psilocybin (Mushrooms), a quantity of liquid THC, oxycodone pills, various paraphernalia and equipment associated with distribution as well as approximately $6,000.00 in US currency.     

Walko’s 25-year-old brother, Richard, who was present during the execution of the search warrants, was also arrested. 

Both Christian and Richard Walko were ultimately charged with Possession of Marijuana, Possession with Intent to Distribute Marijuana, Possession of Hashish, Possession with Intent to Distribute Hashish, Possession of Psilocybin Mushrooms, Possession with Intent to Distribute Psilocybin Mushrooms, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Money Laundering.  Olivia Winterstein was charged with Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.   

Additionally, the US currency along with two vehicles involved in the investigation were seized pending forfeiture.

Assisting in the investigation were members of the Manchester Township Police Department’s Patrol Bureau and K-9 Unit as well as members of the Toms River Police Department’s Patrol Bureau, K-9 Unit and Special Enforcement Team. 

Residents are reminded that drug tips can be reported to the Manchester Police anonymously at 732-657-6111 or online via the Department’s website, www.manchesterpolicenj.com, by clicking the “Tip Line” link.