Cops: Fentanyl, Heroin, Cash Found in Brick Home After Residents’ Complaints

Brick Twp. Police car. (Photo: Daniel Nee)

Brick police have arrested two township men following an investigation that was prompted by numerous complaints from neighbors about potential illicit activity in the home.

The department’s Street Crimes Unit investigated the case. On July 18, police said, SCU Detectives stopped a vehicle being operated by Ricardo Calderon, 43, of Elizabeth. The stop was “related to an investigation into illicit activity at a home located on Homestead Drive.”

The detectives discovered approximately 100 suspected fentanyl pills, approximately 9 grams of cocaine and over 100 wax folds containing heroin. In addition to the drugs, a “large amount of cash” was discovered and seized, according to a statement. The residents of the home on Homestead Drive, identified as Frank Russo Jr., 67, and Matthew Russo, 38, were also located and arrested.

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Calderon was charged with possession with intent to distribute cocaine, fentanyl pills and heroin, possession of cocaine, heroin and fentanyl, and possession of paraphernalia. His charges were issued on a warrant and he was lodged in Ocean County Jail.

Frank Russo Jr. was charged with distribution of cocaine, possession of cocaine and paraphernalia, obstruction of justice and disorderly conduct. Matthew Russo was charged with obstruction of justice and disorderly conduct.

Neither of the three men were listed as inmates in the Ocean County Jail on Tuesday.

“The investigation was the result of numerous complaints from area residents about the suspicious and disruptive activity associated with the Russo residence,” the statement from police said. “Chief Riccio would like to commend the diligent work of the Street Crimes Unit and thank the concerned citizens for becoming involved and helping us to identify a problem household which allowed us to bring this investigation to a successful conclusion. Residents are always encouraged to report suspicious activity or any behavior that disrupts the quality of life of our community.”