A Toms River woman was arrested after a motor vehicle stop in the parking lot of a Route 37 business. Members of Manchester Township Police Narcotics Enforcement Team (N.E.T.) conducted a motor vehicle stop on a 2015 Honda Accord after the driver failed to signal a turn on Northampton Boulevard.

On Friday, September 23, 2016, at approximately 1845 hours, narcotics officers stopped the Honda, driven by Joseph Patalano, 75, and occupied by Catherine L. Derosa, 31, both of Davenport Road in Toms River. During the stop, officers observed drug paraphernalia, consistent with heroin, in plain view which ultimately led to a search of the vehicle. Subsequent investigation revealed that Derosa had quantities of crack cocaine concealed on her person. In addition, while at the scene Derosa provided officers with a different name to avoid being arrested on an active no bail warrant for a probation violation out of Ocean County. Derosa was arrested and transported to Manchester Police headquarters.

At headquarters, Derosa was found to be in possession of quantities of heroin. She was charged with possession of crack cocaine, possession of heroin and hindering her apprehension by providing false information to police. She was later transported to Ocean County Jail on the no bail Ocean County warrant. The driver was not arrested in connection with this incident.

The Manchester Township Police K-9 Unit also assisted with this investigation.

Residents are reminded that drug related 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.