On Wednesday, July 15, 2015, at approximately 9:26 p.m., the Manchester Township Police Narcotics Enforcement Team was conducting surveillance in the Holly Oaks section of Manchester Township. The team was surveilling a Nissan Maxima which was believed to have been involved in a narcotics transaction.

The vehicle was later stopped by police on Colonial Drive near Route 37, and after further investigation, a quantity of heroin and associated paraphernalia was located inside the vehicle. As a result, the driver, Desiree Ruffino, 18, of Nathan Avenue in Manchester and the passenger, Grace Shawger, 18, of Circle Drive, Manchester, were both arrested. Shawger was also found to be in possession of a hypodermic needle/syringe.

Ruffino was charged with possession of heroin, loitering to obtain CDS and possession of drug paraphernalia. Shawger was charged with possession of heroin, possession of a hypodermic needle/syringe, loitering to obtain CDS and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Both subjects were transported to Manchester Police headquarters and later released on complaint summonses. Also assisting with this investigation was Ocean County Sheriff’s Officer Kevin Fennessy and his K-9 Stosh.

Residents are reminded that drug-related tips can be reported to the Manchester Township Police anonymously at 732-657-6111 or online via the Department’s website at www.manchesterpolicenj.com.