On Thursday, May 9th, 2024, the Stafford Township Drug Enforcement Unit conducted surveillance in a commercial parking lot within the jurisdiction and observed a possible controlled dangerous substance (CDS) transaction within a vehicle. The individuals involved were identified as Amanda Richmond (37 years old, Elwood Street in Forked River, NJ) and Scott Mclean (37 years old, Jennifer Lane in Manahawkin, NJ). After a brief interaction between Richmond and Mclean, Mclean entered the store while Richmond began to leave in her vehicle.
Patrolman Russell Okinsky assisted Detective Wiatrowski with stopping Richmond’s vehicle. Detective Wiatrowski's K-9 partner, Venus, indicated the presence of narcotics in the vehicle, leading to a search that uncovered suspected methamphetamine and an electronic scale. Richmond was arrested and transported to the Stafford Township Police Department for processing.
Meanwhile, Detective Wade continued surveillance on Mclean inside the store. Further investigation revealed that Mclean was in possession of suspected methamphetamine in his backpack and was also arrested. Both individuals were processed at police headquarters and later released on criminal complaint summonses pending court appearances. Mclean was charged with 2C:35-10A(1) Possession of CDS, while Richmond was charged with 2C:35-5B(9)(B) Distribution of CDS, 2C:35-10A(1) Possession of CDS, and four counts of 2C:36-2A Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
As a reminder, the Stafford Township Police Department does not release arrest photos of defendants. All individuals are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.