Ringwood Man Charged After Toddler Tests Positive for Cocaine Exposure at Wildwood Airbnb

A Ringwood man is facing criminal charges after a 2-year-old child in his care was hospitalized in Wildwood and later tested positive for cocaine exposure, according to the Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office.

Alexander T. Noles, 39, has been charged with second-degree child endangerment, third-degree cocaine possession, and two counts related to possession of drug paraphernalia and prescription legend drugs.

The incident happened Monday at an Airbnb rental in Wildwood, where Noles was staying with a woman and other children.

According to court documents, Noles was watching the children while the woman was in the shower. When she returned, she noticed the toddler appeared unusually drowsy. Noles began driving the child for medical attention and called the woman to ask if the child could sleep. She told him the child should not sleep and contacted 911.

First responders arrived and administered two doses of naloxone, also known by the brand name Narcan, after the child experienced breathing difficulties. The toddler was transported to Cooper University Hospital Cape Regional, where medical testing later showed positive results for cocaine exposure.

During the hospital investigation, Noles allegedly told officers he believed the child had ingested “pain killers.” After being advised of his Miranda rights, he requested an attorney.

A court-authorized search of the Airbnb rental uncovered an orange and white partial pill, several tinfoil packets labeled “tapentadol hydrochloride,” a clear bag containing white powder, and multiple short plastic straws, according to authorities.

The Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office has not released additional details about the relationship between Noles, the woman, and the child.

Noles was initially detained at the Cape May County Correctional Facility but was later released following a detention hearing. He is represented by attorney John Zarych.