Bail reform works well until heroin arrest in Howell Township

One of three men charged with heroin possession during a speeding stop in Howell Township was already awaiting a hearing on a separate charge in Brick Township, according to Howell police.

Rashon Brown, 34, of Brick Township, was charged April 11, along with Roosevelt Harris, 38, of Brick, and Jerel Wallace, 40, of Asbury Park, when police allegedly found about 500 folds of heroin, other drugs and cash hidden in the 2017 Chevrolet Tahoe they stopped for speeding on Herbertsville Road.

Police said that the SUV flagged down by Detective David Gilliland about 4 PM contained Harris at the wheel, Wallace alongside, and Brown unbelted in the back. License plate data indicated that the owner's driving license was under suspension. Police said that Crime Suppression Unit officers arrived as Gilliland detected the aroma of marijuana.

The ankle bracelet, applied as part of New Jersey's new bail reform initiative, became apparent as Brown exited the car with his companions. Police said that Brown informed them of the Brick Township arrest, and indicated that the device's purpose was to ensure a 9 PM curfew.

Officers said that Brown also had an active traffic warrant in Brick, and placed him in custody. Then, they obtained Harris's consent to search the Tahoe.

The heroin, stamped "Blue Magic" and "Blue Ink," was found in a compartment hidden in the upper dashboard, along with suspected crack cocaine wrapped in clear plastic in a cotton sock, police said. Officers uncovered five cell phones, $415 and two empty hidden compartments, plus marijuana in Harris's sock, police said.

They jointly face four counts related to heroin and crack possession and intent to distribute. Harris is also charged with marijuana possession and ticketged for possession in a motor vehicle. Brown was written up for a seat belt violation.

All three were sent to the Monmouth County Correctional Institution in Freehold. Police confiscated the Tahoe, seeking forfeiture.

Brick Township police declined to discuss his pending charges there, responding that a monitoring device is normally issued through the court system or the state parole system.

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