newjerseynewsroom.com

BY ALICIA CRUZ

NEWJERSEYNEWSROOM.COM

A two month narcotics probe by the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s office Gang and Narcotics Task Force culminated in the arrest of a Little Silver man.

Jonathan Merklinger was arrested on March 15 after a search of his home netted the seizure of more than 40 Oxycodone pills with a street value of approximately $1500, along with a small quantity of cocaine, marijuana and a scale.

The investigation showed that Merklinger was engaged in the distribution of Oxycodone, an oral medication generally prescribed for pain relief. However, over the years, heroin addicts have turned to the narcotic, using it recreationally and as cheaper alternative to heroin.

As detectives were searching Merklinger's residence, John Sutphin, Jr., 24, approached the home looking to buy 15 Oxycodone pills from Merklinger.

Officers arrested the Red Bank man, charging him with one count of third degree Conspiracy to Possess a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Oxycodone), and later released him on a Summons.

In a news release issued by the Monmouth County Prosecutor's Office, Little Silver Police Chief Shannon Giblin said the quality of life in Little Silver was an important issue, and drug activity would not be tolerated.

In all, Merklinger was charged with one count each of third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Oxycodone), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Cocaine), fourth degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Marijuana), and third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance with Intent to Distribute (Oxycodone).

Merklinger was also charged with the disorderly persons offense of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia for possessing a scale.

Municipal Court Judge Richard B. Thompson set the 27-year-old man's bail at $10,000 and lodged him in the Monmouth County jail. Assistant Monmouth County Prosecutor Paul Alexander will prosecute the case.