MANCHESTER – Officers pulled over a vehicle, and the ensuing investigation led to arrests for a variety of illegal narcotics in large quantities.
The suspect’s vehicle was pulled over for a driving violation near Route 530 on September 17. After finding drugs there, the investigation led to a Toms River home and another vehicle. Police said they found approximately nine pounds of marijuana, four pounds of THC wax, over half a pound of Psilocybin (mushrooms), a quantity of liquid THC, oxycodone pills, various paraphernalia and equipment associated with distribution as well as approximately $6,000 in cash.
Christian N. Walko and Olivia Winterstein, both 23-year-old Toms River residents, were in the vehicle that was pulled over. Richard Walko, 25, was home during the search warrants and was also charged.
Both Christian and Richard Walko were ultimately charged with Possession of Marijuana, Possession with Intent to Distribute Marijuana, Possession of Hashish, Possession with Intent to Distribute Hashish, Possession of Psilocybin Mushrooms, Possession with Intent to Distribute Psilocybin Mushrooms, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Money Laundering. Olivia Winterstein was charged with Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
Charges are merely accusations until proven in a court of law.
The two vehicles were seized pending forfeiture.
Assisting in the investigation were members of the Manchester Township Police Department’s Patrol Bureau and K-9 Unit as well as members of the Toms River Police Department’s Patrol Bureau, K-9 Unit and Special Enforcement Team.
Drug tips can be reported to Manchester Police anonymously at 732-657-6111 or online via the Department’s website, manchesterpolicenj.com, by clicking the “Tip Line” link.
