Police: Heroin, Cocaine Found in Car, Two Arrested

RIO GRANDE – Cape May County Prosecutor Robert L. Taylor and Middle Township Police Chief Christopher Leusner announce the arrest of Michael R. Stewart, 50, of Oaklyn, N.J. for the distribution of heroin and cocaine on Feb. 3. 
This arrest was the conclusion of a cooperative investigation between the Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office, Gangs, Guns and Narcotics Task Force and the Middle Township Police Department Street Crimes Unit. 
On Feb. 3, the Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office, Gangs, Guns and Narcotics Task Force, along with the Middle Township Street Crimes Unit, were conducting an investigation into the open air drug distribution in Rio Grande.
During this time, Stewart was observed and believed to be making narcotics transactions from his vehicle. From this investigation, Stewart was arrested during one of these alleged sales in the area of the 3500 block Route 9 in Rio Grande. Also arrested at the scene was Eric J. Mate, 31, of Hamilton Township, N.J.
At the time of his arrest, Stewart was found to be in possession of distribution amounts of crack cocaine. Stewart’s vehicle was seized and a court authorized warrant was obtained to search Stewart’s vehicle. Seized as a result of the search of the vehicle were 249 bags of heroin and approximately one-half ounce of crack cocaine. Additionally, $1,011, along with Stewart’s vehicle, a 2003 Acura TL, are being seized for civil forfeiture as proceeds from the distribution of narcotics.
Mate was charged with possession of controlled dangerous substance (CDS) – heroin, third degree, and was placed on a summons. Mate had an outstanding warrant from the Hamilton Township Municipal Court and was subsequently lodged in the Cape May County Correctional Center in lieu of bail.
Stewart was charged with possession of CDS – cocaine, third degree, possession with the intent to distribute CDS – cocaine, third degree, possession of CDS – heroin, third degree, possession with the intent to distribute CDS – heroin, third degree, and two counts of possession with the intent to distribute CDS within 500 feet of a public place, second degree. Stewart was subsequently lodged in the Cape May County Correctional Center pending court proceedings.
Taylor advises that persons convicted of a second degree crime are subject to a term of imprisonment of five to 10 years in New Jersey State Prison and third degree crimes are subject to a term of imprisonment of three to five years. Taylor stated that his office will continue to work hand in hand with the municipal police departments to target anyone selling illegal CDS.
Taylor continues to urge the citizens of Cape May County to report any information regarding illegal drug activity and any criminal activity within the community to Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office at 609-465-1135, or the Middle Township Police Department at 609-465-8700, or text TIP MTPDTIPS followed by your message to 888777, or anonymously through the Cape May County Sheriff’s Tip Line at cmcsheriff.net and click on anonymous tip.
The charges and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty. This report is based on information received from the Prosecutor’s Office.