Cocaine seized in Manchester drug bust

What began as a driving infraction stop in Manchester ended with the seizure of eight grams of cocaine and two arrestees, say township police.

Jonathan Gansler, 33, of Toms River, and Alexandro Contreras, 34, of Seaside Heights, were arrested Thursday night by members of the township's Narcotics Enforcement Team after the 2002 Chevrolet Malibu driven by Gansler was stopped on Route 571 at Commonwealth Boulevard.

According to police, Gansler appeared tense during the pullover and, despite warnings to keep his hands visible, kept sliding his hand into the pocket of his slacks.

Police said his pocket contained a crack pipe, and a further search revealed crack cocaine and a hypodermic needle.

Looking through the car, officers found drug-related items that prompted Contreras's arrest, police said, adding that they discovered cocaine on him at headquarters.

Contreras is charged with possession of crack cocaine, possession of a controlled dangerous substance with intent to distribute and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was placed in the Ocean County Jail in Toms River, with bail set at $10,000.

Gansler also was wanted on a warrant issued by Toms River police, authorities said. He posted bail and was released.