On Saturday, September 24, 2011 at 1:55 a.m., Patrolman Robert Harms observed two (2) males walking southbound on Valley Road at West Webster Avenue. As the males were walking, Patrolman Harms observed one (1) male, identified as Matthew A. Smith, age 30 of Waretown, NJ, holding a six-pack of beer in his right hand and an opened beer bottle in his left hand. The other male, identified as Robert W. McCrea, age 19 of Westfield, NJ was walking next to Smith holding an opened beer bottle in his right hand. Both parties were observed consuming the beer and appeared intoxicated as they were staggering as they walked. As Mr. McCrea noticed officer Harms’ police vehicle, he immediatly handed his beer bottle to Smith who then put the bottle in the six-pack holder, which he was carrying.
A pedestrian stop resulted in the discovery of a clear plastic wrapper, which contained suspected marijuana.
The two (2) males were placed under arrest and charged with 2C:35-10(a)(4) (possession of marijuana) and Roselle Park Borough ordinance 3-1.1 (alcohol in public places). Mr. McCrea was additionally charged with 2C:33-15(a) (possession of alcohol under age 21) and 2C:29-3 (hindering apprehension). Mr. McCrea originally attempted to identify himself as his brother. A photo of the brother through the patrol vehicle’s on-board computer revealed the deception.
Both men were released to a sober adult for their safety pending a Roselle Park Municipal Court date of October 6, 2011.