5 Face Drug Charges in Lakewood

Five people face charges following a two-month probe into alleged drug storage and distribution facilities in Lakewood.

The Ocean County Prosecutor's Office announced the arrests Tuesday, one day after they executed search warrants at four different sites in Lakewood Township.

The searches of those sites and two vehicles resulted in the seizure of about a pound of cocaine and about $8,000 in cash. Authorities also found electronic scales, packaging materials, and assorted items used in the manufacturing, packaging and distribution of cocaine.

Authorities say the seized cocaine has an approximate street value of $25,000.

Beyond the alleged drug operation, detectives also found equipment and materials they say are used in the production of fictitious passports.

Arrested were: David Marquez, 25, Jose Hernandez Varela, 44, Ramona Flores, 30, Carmelo Ramirez, 28 and Rocio Luna, 22, all of Lakewood.

The Prosecutor's Office say additional arrests are expected.

The Associated Press contributed to this report