19-year-old Cardiff resident arrested following execution of multiple search warrants; police say investigation targeted illegal THC vape distribution, particularly among young people.
EGG HARBOR TOWNSHIP, N.J. — A 19-year-old Egg Harbor Township man has been arrested following a lengthy narcotics investigation that resulted in the seizure of a large quantity of suspected THC vape cartridges, two firearms, an illegal silencer and multiple large-capacity ammunition magazines.
Hebereli Mejia, of the Cardiff section of Egg Harbor Township, was taken into custody Wednesday, November 4, after members of the Egg Harbor Township Police Department's Criminal Investigation Bureau executed multiple court-authorized search warrants.
According to police, the operation followed a long-term investigation into suspected illegal narcotics distribution.
During the searches, investigators recovered a large quantity of vape cartridges containing suspected THC oil.
Officers also seized two firearms, including one equipped with what police described as an illegal silencer, along with multiple large-capacity ammunition magazines.
Mejia was arrested and charged with multiple firearms and narcotics offenses.
Police did not specify the individual charges in their announcement.
He was processed and lodged in the Atlantic County Justice Facility pending a detention hearing.
Police Target Illegal THC Vape Sales to Young People
The Egg Harbor Township Police Department said the investigation was part of a broader effort to combat the illegal distribution of THC vape products, particularly those being marketed and sold to younger members of the community.
THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the primary psychoactive compound found in cannabis.
Although New Jersey permits regulated recreational cannabis sales to adults 21 and older, the distribution of cannabis products outside the state's legal framework remains prohibited.
The sale of cannabis products to minors is also illegal.
Police emphasized that the investigation was focused on unlawful distribution rather than legally authorized cannabis sales.
The department said its enforcement efforts are intended to protect young people from potentially dangerous products being sold outside regulated channels.
The release did not specify the number of vape cartridges seized, their estimated street value or whether laboratory testing had confirmed their contents.
Authorities also did not disclose where the search warrants were executed or whether investigators had identified particular buyers.
Firearms and Silencer Recovered
In addition to the suspected THC products, investigators recovered two firearms and multiple large-capacity ammunition magazines.
One of the firearms was equipped with what authorities described as an illegal silencer.
The combination of suspected narcotics and weapons resulted in multiple charges against Mejia, according to police.
The department did not release additional information about the firearms, including their makes, models or whether they were legally registered.
Multiple Agencies Assisted
The Egg Harbor Township Police Department credited the Atlantic County Regional SWAT Team and the Atlantic County Prosecutor's Office with assisting in the investigation and execution of the search warrants.
Police said the cooperation among the agencies helped bring the operation to a safe conclusion.
The department described the investigation as part of its continuing commitment to disrupting illegal narcotics distribution and unlawful weapons possession.
The case remains pending.
Mejia is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
Anyone with information relevant to the investigation can contact the Egg Harbor Township Police Department at 609-927-4052.
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Peter Killeen
A 25-year radio news veteran, Peter covers South Jersey for NewsTalk 1400 & 92.3 WOND radio. Known for his concise and impactful delivery, he ensures listeners and readers stay informed without unnecessary filler.
