BRIDGETON POLICE ARREST MAN FOR MARIJUANA POSSESSION

Earlier Saturday afternoon, Bridgeton Police officers recovered nearly 13 ounces of suspected marijuana with a street value of more than $3,500 following a vehicle stop on Russell Ave. near Garden Rd. According to reports, Lamont Loper, 26, of 725 Grove St. was arrested after officers smelled an odor of raw marijuana emanating from his vehicle after he was stopped for a motor vehicle violation. Police said the suspect turned over a small package of suspected marijuana after officers advised him of what they smelled but that more of the drug was visible inside the vehicle and the suspect signed a consent to search form allowing the officers further access. Loper was charged with possession of marijuana, possession with intent to distribute the drug, possession of drugs near or on a private housing complex and possession of the drug on or near school property. Loper was taken to police headquarters processed and released after posting 10 percent of $15,000 bail.