MONMOUTH COUNTY – A veteran police officer of the Long Branch Police Department who admitted to operating a meth lab in his home has been sentenced to 10 years in state prison, officials said.
Christopher Walls, 50, of West End Avenue in Long Branch, had previously pled guilty to charges of second degree Causing a Risk of Widespread Injury and 3rd degree Manufacturing Methamphetamine.
His term includes a two-year period of parole ineligibility, and as part of the plea, Walls also permanently forfeited public office, as well as his firearms and firearms ID card.
Walls was first arrested on May 15 after Long Branch police officers arrived at his home due to a domestic disturbance call. A resident in the home said that he was involved in drug activity.
The New Jersey State Police (NJSP) Hazmat Unit responded and found materials, chemicals and instruments consistent with a methamphetamine laboratory in both the basement of the home and in a shed on the property. They also confirmed that Walls was in possession of all ingredients necessary to manufacture methamphetamine and found methamphetamine residue in chemistry-related glassware on site.
Investigation revealed that Walls had been in possession of books related to making methamphetamine, explosives and poison.
Additionally, authorities found a large open and unsecured gun safe in the home which was accessible to a child living there. Inside the safe were two long guns, four handguns, eight high-capacity magazines, and a large quantity of ammunition.
“In manufacturing illegal narcotics out of his home, Officer Walls threatened the safety and security of the very community he swore an oath to protect and serve,” Acting Monmouth County Prosecutor Lori Linskey said. “We feel that this sentence sends an unmistakable message that such conduct among members of law enforcement will never be tolerated. This former officer’s actions are also a profound disservice to all of the hardworking and dedicated members of law enforcement who work diligently each day to protect their communities with honor.”
