Madison, New Jersey — A routine day turned into a criminal investigation for a Madison school district employee after authorities arrested him in connection with what prosecutors describe as an organized drug distribution operation spanning multiple towns in Morris County.
Officials announced that 32-year-old Casey J. Young of Morris Plains has been hit with a series of charges tied to his alleged involvement in the trafficking scheme. The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office revealed the charges on Friday, outlining a case that appears to have been weeks in the making.
Nine Criminal Charges, Including Major Drug Offenses
Prosecutors say Young faces nine criminal counts, with some of the most severe revolving around high-level narcotics possession and intent to distribute. Among the top charges are:
- First-degree possession of 100 milligrams of LSD with intent to distribute
- Second-degree possession of a half ounce of cocaine with intent to distribute
In addition to these primary allegations, Young is also accused of possessing psilocybin mushrooms, various forms of drug paraphernalia, and carrying a handgun without a permit—a combination of offenses that significantly elevates the seriousness of the case.
Investigators Say Drug Ring Operated for More Than Two Months
According to prosecutors, Young wasn’t acting alone. Investigators allege he and two other individuals were running a drug distribution enterprise that operated across Morris County between September 1 and November 13 of this year.
On Thursday, detectives executed multiple search warrants at locations connected to the three suspects, according to the reports. The searches produced a sizable haul:
- Large amounts of cocaine, ketamine, ecstasy, LSD, and psilocybin mushrooms
- Drug packaging and distribution equipment
- Two handguns, including one previously reported stolen in Mississippi
- Approximately $18,000 in cash, believed to be proceeds from narcotics sales
Officials say the evidence points to a coordinated effort to move significant quantities of illegal drugs throughout the county.
Arrest Made After School District Truck Arrives at Search Scene
Authorities say Young’s arrest occurred under unusual circumstances. He reportedly arrived at one of the properties being searched while driving a Madison Board of Education vehicle. Investigators confirmed that Young is employed with the district, though his specific role has not yet been disclosed.
Attempts to reach district officials for details were unsuccessful on Friday night, leaving questions about Young’s position and access within the school system.
Two Other Men Charged in the Drug Distribution Operation
The investigation also led to the arrests of two additional suspects:
- Adrian D. Schwerdt-O’Neil, 34, of Parsippany-Troy Hills
- Jeremy C. Mayes, 35, of Cedar Knolls
Schwerdt-O’Neil faces several drug-related charges, including second-degree possession of a half ounce of cocaine with intent to distribute and conspiracy tied to controlled dangerous substances.
Mayes, meanwhile, was hit with 13 charges, covering a wide range of offenses:
- Second-degree possession of a firearm during a CDS offense
- Money laundering
- Third-degree receiving stolen property
- Possession of cocaine, ketamine, and ecstasy
Custody Status: Two Held, One Released
All three men were taken into custody on Thursday. Prosecutors say Schwerdt-O’Neil has since been released, while both Young and Mayes remain detained at the Morris County Jail pending further legal proceedings.
Authorities have not yet announced upcoming court dates, and the investigation is still ongoing.
Should school districts strengthen background checks and monitoring for employees, or is this case an isolated incident?
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