Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced today that Peter Keith Paul was arrested and charged with Strict Liability Drug Induced Death, Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Fentanyl), Possession With the Intent to Distribute a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Fentanyl) and Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Fentanyl).
According to authorities, on Jan. 26th, Toms River Township Police were dispatched to a residence in response to an unresponsive 46-year-old male.
Upon arrival, then victim was pronounced dead at the scene.
A subsequent investigation revealed that on Jan. 25th, Paul sold pills to the victim. A toxicology report later confirmed that the Fentanyl found in the victim’s system was the cause of his death.
Officials say Paul was previously charged with Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance with the Intent to Distribute and two counts of Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance on Feb. 15th.
Police say Paul surrendered himself to the Toms River Township Police Station and was transported to the Ocean County Jail pending a detention hearing.
Members of the public and the media are reminded that defendants are innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.