A Beachwood Borough resident was arrested after being stopped on State Highway 37 in Manchester. On May 30, 2018, members of the Narcotics Enforcement Team (NET) observed a vehicle in the area of County Route 571 near State Highway 70. The vehicle was subsequently stopped for motor vehicle violations on SH 37 in the area of Colonial Drive. Through further investigation, officers conducted a search of the vehicle. The search revealed 1.6 pounds of cocaine, 27 oxycodone pills, 5 ounces of liquid codeine, 15 grams of marijuana, and drug paraphernalia; an approximate street value of over $72,000.
The driver, 33 year old Michael Trotman of Beachwood was charged with one count each of Possession of and Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine, three counts of Possession of and one count of Possession with Intent to Distribute Oxycodone, one count each of Possession of and Possession with Intent to Distribute Marijuana, Possession of Codeine, Hindering Evidence by Concealment, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Trotman was lodged in Ocean County Jail in lieu of bail.
The 2015 Toyota Camry that was driven was seized during the investigation, as well as approximately $1,400 in cash, pending forfeiture.
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.