Cocaine arrests in Toms River, Manchester

Cocaine is a common denominator in separate arrests in Toms River and Manchester.

Hidden handgun

A Newark man faces drug, and possibly weapons, charges in Toms River, in the aftermath of a month-long investigation centered on a downtown motel.

Ameer Holt, 30, was cuffed after police conducted a motor vehicle stop in the parking area of the Red Carpet Motel on Water Street, September 22.

Police said the search uncovered 20 grams of cocaine, Oxycodone, less than 50 grams of marijuana, digital scales, items used to package and distribute controlled dangerous substances, and a Colt .45-caliber semiautomatic handgun that was hidden behind a door panel in the car.

Holt was charged with five drug-related counts. Weapons charges are pending. was detained in lieu of $150,000 bail. Police credited alert citizens for assistance and support in the probe.

Vehicle flaw, out-of-town warrant

In Manchester, a road stop for an apparent equipment violation on Route 571 before dawn Tuesday led to pending court proceedings for two township men.

Sergio Correa, 24, and William Taylor, 47, both of Dunrovin Court, were in the car on the county road that was pulled over near Commonwealth Boulevard, at about 3:13 AM, by Officer Brian Volk.

According to police, Correa was the subject of a $120 active warrant issued in North Bergen. Taylor was found to be in possession of cocaine.

Correa was released after posting bail. Taylor was charged with possession, given several driving summonses, and released to await a hearing.

Charges are accusations. Defendants are presumed innocent unless, and until, found guilty in a court of law.