Drug Charges For Man After Stafford Traffic Stop: Police

MANAHAWKIN, NJ — Stafford Township police charged a West Creek man with drug offenses after an early morning motor vehicle stop on Route 9, according to the department.

Police reported that at about 1:29 a.m. Saturday, April 18, 2026, Patrolman Sean O’Rourke and Patrolman Ryan Cahill conducted a traffic stop near Route 9 and Julian Court in Stafford Township on Richard J. Wolverton, 67, of Route 9 in West Creek.

According to Stafford Township police, during the stop O’Rourke and Cahill developed reasonable suspicion that Wolverton was possessing a controlled dangerous substance inside the vehicle or on his person. Police said further investigation led to the discovery of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia in the vehicle and in his possession.

Wolverton was charged with possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia, according to the department.

After he was processed at Stafford Township Police Department, Wolverton was released with a complaint summons pending a future court appearance at the Ocean County Superior Court, according to police.