Jackson man charged in Brick Township overdose death probe

A Jackson man is charged with triggering a January heroin overdose death in Brick Township.

Timothy Baker, 26, is charged with strict liability drug-induced death regarding Thomas Palazzolo,according to the office of Ocean County Prosecutor Joseph D. Coronato. Baker also faces three charges related to heroin possession and distribution.

Palazzolo was found, prone and unresponsive, on his bedroom floor by Brick Township police at 9:47 AM on January 27. After unsuccessful efforts to revive him, Palazzolo was pronounced dead at 10:07 AM.

Investigations by Ocean County authorities led to Baker. The county Medical Examiner's autopsy report confirmed that Palazzolo's death was drug-induced. Baker was arrested January 31.

In a prepared statement, Coronato said:

"OCPO will continue to lead the way in developing Strict Liability/Drug Induced Death cases. It's critical during this opiate crisis we take strong punitive measures against dealers bringing death to those fighting addiction."

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