Following a routine traffic stop in Wood-Ridge, New Jersey, a man from Clifton has been charged with multiple drug offenses, including possession of marijuana, possession with intent to distribute, possession within 500 feet of certain public property, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

According to Wood-Ridge Police Detective Joseph Rutigliano, Officer Mark Torsiello initially pulled over 22-year-old Clifton resident Anthony Woodbury on Moonachie Avenue in Wood-Ridge at approximately 5:30 p.m. on Monday, July 14^th because the Honda Accord he was driving at the time displayed an expired inspection sticker and did not have a front license plate. When Officer Torsiello allegedly smelled marijuana, he requested and received Woodbury’s consent to search the vehicle. The subsequent search led to the discovery of 2 ½ ounces of marijuana as well as a marijuana grinder.

As a result, Woodbury was arrested and charged with possession of marijuana, possession with intent to distribute, possession with intent to distribute within 500 feet of certain public property, and possession of drug paraphernalia. He posted bail in the amount of $1,500 pending an appearance in court.

Of the crimes for which he is accused, marijuana possession with intent to distribute is governed under N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5, which addresses all offenses related to the manufacture, distribution, or dispensation of marijuana in New Jersey. According to this statute, in cases involving marijuana in a quantity of one ounce or more but less than five pounds, the offense is considered a crime of the third degree, which is punishable by a term of incarceration ranging from 3 to 5 years in New Jersey State Prison. A defendant may also be subject to a maximum fine of $25,000 upon conviction.

Even more seriously, Woodbury has been charged with possession with intent to distribute within 500 feet of certain public property, which is classified as a second degree crime under N.J.S.A. 2C:35-7.1, unless the offense involves less than one ounce of marijuana, in which case it is a crime of the third degree. Per the statute, “certain public property” can include a public housing facility, a public park, or a public building but in this case, the property in question was a public park. As such, Woodbury is facing a prison sentence of between 5 and 10 years if he is found guilty.

For more information pertaining to this case, access the following article: Missing plate, expired inspection sticker leads to Wood-Ridge pot arrest