Berkeley Police Arrest Three On Drug Charges In Berkeley Plaza

BERKELEY TOWNSHIP, NJ - Berkeley Township detectives recently arrested three Lacey residents in the Berkeley Plaza after they were found with multiple wax folds of heroin, Police Chief Karin T. DiMichele said.

The arrests were the result of a proactive investigation in the Route 9 corridor on Dec. 13, after police spotted drug activity, the chief said.

"This included suspects meeting with other people with the purpose of using heroin," DiMichele said.

Detectives arrested Jeni McDaniel, 28, Caroline Wilson, 52, and Therese Hartmann, 50, all from Lacey, the chief said.

All three women were taken to police headquarters, where they were all charged with possession of heroin. They were later released in accordance with the state Bail Reform Act, DiMichael said.

Detective Sergeant Pete La Rocca, Detective Mike Riccardelli, Detective William Somers,Detective Michael O’Connor and Patrolman Tim Pizzella all assisted in this operation. Detectives conduct the investigations in areas that residents report as possible drug areas, the chief said.

"These arrests are the latest in a series of quality of life operation along the Route 9 corridor involving the use and distribution of heroin," DiMichael said. "Anyone with information related to the sale and use of narcotics are urged to call the Berkeley Township Police Tip Line at 732-341-1132 x611. Tips can be anonymous."

Photo: Patch archive photo