LAKEWOOD — Two men were arrested on drug-related charges early Sunday after police responded to reports of a fight in downtown Lakewood, authorities said.
Officers were dispatched around 2:26 a.m. on May 3 following multiple 911 calls about a disturbance near a business on 2nd Street. While patrolling the area, officers observed two individuals whose behavior drew attention based on prior knowledge and ongoing concerns about narcotics activity, police said.
The men, identified as Rashon Peten, 37, of Asbury Park, and Kharii Pringle, 42, of Lakewood, were monitored as they walked through the area and eventually entered a vehicle. Police then initiated a traffic stop for a motor vehicle violation.
During the investigation, officers recovered suspected crack cocaine from Peten, along with additional narcotics inside the vehicle, according to authorities.
Peten was taken into custody and charged with possession of a controlled dangerous substance, possession with intent to distribute, possession of drug paraphernalia, and failure to turn over a controlled dangerous substance. Pringle was also arrested and charged with possession of a controlled dangerous substance and failure to turn over a controlled dangerous substance.
Both men were transported to the Ocean County Jail pending court proceedings. The driver of the vehicle was released at the scene, police said.
Police Chief Gregory H. Meyer commended the officers involved, saying their vigilance during overnight patrols continues to address drug activity in the township.
Authorities noted that the charges are accusations and that all defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
