Howell Police Seek Help in Drug Arrests

In the early morning hours on Thursday the Howell Police Department searched a home on Danella Way which resulted in the discovery of a "full-scale marijuana grow facility," According to Detective Sgt. Eileen Dodd. 

The home was unoccupied at the time of the search according to Dodd. During the search 32 mature marijuana plants were found and were all at least six feet tall. Calling it a "very elaborate system," Dodd said officers found "fluorescent lights, heat, fans and an irrigation and drainage system." She said the room was also insulated and there were blowers to vent the room. 

Along with the Howell Police JCP&L was also called to the scene to cut power after a new subpanel and transformers were found in the residence. 

With so many plants Dodd said, "the odor of raw marijuana inside the home was completely overwhelming." She said the ventilation system also resulted in black mold on the second floor and in the attic. 

Dodd also said the house did not appear to be used as a residence. "The home was unfurnished and it was clear the residence was used for the sole purpose of growing marijuana," she said. "This is another example of the lengths criminals will go to in order to commit their crimes."

The owner of the home is listed as Michael Hammer, according to Dodd, and is used as a rental. The most recent tenant is Guillermo D. Fabian, 33, whose last known address was Cherry Street in Elizabeth. 

Several warrants have been issued for Fabian for a variety of charges including possession of over 50 grams of marijuana, distribution of over 25 pounds of marijuana, maintain/operating a controlled dangerous substance production facility and possession of drug paraphernalia. 

The search and discovery is part of a yearlong effort under the command of Lt. Tom Rizzo investigating narcotics and weapons offenses in the township. Dodd said many officers in the department took part in the investigatoin including Capt. Andy Kudrick, Ptl. Omri Spiegel, Ptl. Nick Bondarew, Ptl. Jesse Moore, Ptl. Jack Headley, Ptl. Dave Levine, Ptl. Pete Kuppler, Ptl. William Bommer Jr., and Det. Rich Conte. Detective Sgt. Dean Carnival of the New Jersey State Police also assisted in the investigation.

As part of the investigation Dodd said the officers gave extra time to help gather the evidence needed. "This unit is comprised of officers who have demonstrated a higher level of interest in combating criminal activity within Howell Township," she said. "Although manpower levels at this time do not allow the formation of a dedicated unit, these officers voluntarily adjust their schedules accordingly to facilitate these investigations."

She said the work of the officers "have resulted in numerous arrests and seizures of large amounts of drugs, weapons, currency, automobiles and property. 

The investigation on Danella way was initiated by Ptl. Ryan Richards. Anyone with information about criminal activity is encouraged to call the department's anonymous tip line at 732-938-4575 ext. 2874.