Berkeley, Lacey Police Make Major Drug Bust In Bayville Home

Berkeley and Lacey township detectives have arrested a Bayville man and charged him with the large scale distribution of Oxycodone and suspected anabolic steroids, Police Chief Karin T. DiMichele said.

George Woerner, 41, is suspected in the distribution of more than 500 individual doses per week in Berkeley and surrounding townships from his home on Hoover Avenue, the chief said.

"This home was known as a consistent location for the distribution of these prescriptions..." DiMichele said.

Police also found nearly $10,000 in cash hidden in the house after a no knock search warrant on Woerner's home in the Bayville section of Berkeley Township on May 23.

Warner was taken to police headquarters, where he was charged with possession of Oxycodone, possession of Oxycodone with intent to distribute and possession of anabolic steroids. The investigation is continuing and more arrests are likely, DiMichele said.

Woerner was released in accordance with the state Bail Reform Act.

Berkeley Detective Joseph Santoro was the primary investigation during the month-long probe. He was assisted by Detectives Sgt. Peter La Rocca, Detectives Michael Riccardelli, William Somers, Michael O'Connor and Michael Tier, the Berkeley Township patrol division, the Ocean County SWAT team and the Ocean County Sheriff's Departments K-9.

DiMichele credited concerned citizens who alerted police of the suspected drug dealing.

"This successful operation could not have occurred without the information gathered via our tip line and citizens who directly reported this activity to the police," the chief said. "Further, this arrest is attributed to the cooperative relationship between Berkeley and Lacey Township Detectives who often collaborate on issues mutually affecting each town. This has greatly assisted investigations and has led to multiple arrests and seizures throughout both townships."

Residents are urged to contact the Berkeley Township Police at 732-341-1132 x 611 to report suspicious activity. Calls can remain anonymous.