Manchester, NJ – In a significant law enforcement operation targeting narcotics distribution, six individuals were arrested following a SWAT raid on a home in Manchester Township. The multi-agency investigation uncovered a substantial amount of illegal drugs and over $140,000 in cash, highlighting a major drug bust in the area.
The extensive investigation revealed that a local residence was being used as a hub to store and distribute various narcotics. On August 25, surveillance confirmed all six suspects were present before the Ocean County Regional SWAT Team executed a search warrant, leading to one of the largest recent drug seizures in the region.
The Unprecedented Seizure Details
During the raid, law enforcement officials discovered an enormous quantity of illegal substances, including some of the most potent and sought-after drugs:
- 121 pounds of marijuana
- 100 pounds of THC products
- 75 pounds of cannabis concentrate
- 2 pounds of methamphetamines
- 20 pounds of psilocybin mushrooms
- 6 ounces of MDMA (ecstasy or molly)
- 40 grams of cocaine
- 7 sheets of LSD
- $140,000 in cash
The large volume and variety of narcotics indicate this operation was a significant distribution network within the Shore area.
Suspects and Charges: A Closer Look
The six apprehended suspects face multiple charges, primarily related to possession and intent to distribute various controlled substances, including conspiracy charges. The individuals involved are:
- Giovanni Arroyave, 30, Manchester – charged with multiple counts including possession with intent to distribute marijuana, LSD, hashish, MDMA, methamphetamine, cocaine, and financial facilitation.
- Giorgio Arroyave, 27, Manchester – charged with similar offenses including marijuana, hashish, psilocybin mushrooms, drug paraphernalia possession, and financial facilitation.
- Paul Saryan, 29, Montville – charged with possession and conspiracy related to marijuana distribution.
- Hunter Penz, 23, Medford – charged with possession and conspiracy to distribute marijuana.
- Rhianna Noonan, 22, Bridgewater – charged similarly with marijuana-related offenses.
- Ryan Verlie, 26, Berkeley – charged with possession and conspiracy for marijuana distribution.
Following their arrests, five suspects were held at the Ocean County Jail in Toms River but were later released pending court proceedings. Ryan Verlie received a summons for a superior court appearance rather than detention.
Collaboration Among Law Enforcement Agencies
This successful narcotics bust was the result of a coordinated effort involving numerous agencies:
- Ocean County Narcotics Strike Force
- Asset Forfeiture Unit of the Prosecutor’s Office
- Manchester Township Police Department
- Berkeley Township Police Department
- Ocean County Sheriff’s Office
- Aberdeen Township Police Department
- Ocean County Regional SWAT Team
Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer underscored the importance of this operation in disrupting a major narcotics distribution hub at the Shore.
What This Means for Manchester and Beyond
This raid sends a clear message about the commitment of law enforcement agencies to tackling drug distribution networks in New Jersey communities. The seizure not only removes a significant amount of illegal narcotics from circulation but also helps to combat drug-related crime and maintain public safety in the Shore region.
The investigation and arrests serve to impede local drug trade and highlight ongoing efforts to dismantle organized narcotics operations.
Key Takeaways:
- A combined law enforcement operation successfully seized multiple controlled substances of varying types and quantities.
- Six suspects face various drug-related charges centered mainly on possession and intent to distribute.
- The seizure included a noteworthy $140,000 in cash, indicating the scale of the operation.
- The raid reflects effective inter-agency collaboration to combat illegal drug distribution.
What do you think about this major drug bust in Manchester? Have you noticed increased law enforcement efforts in your community? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
