Two charged with drug distribution

FRANKLIN — Two Vernon men face drug charges after Franklin police conducted an investigation into narcotics distribution in the borough, and finding a Vernon resident had allegedly been selling marijuana in and around Franklin.

Jeffrey P. Hanley, 22, of Vernon was charged with possessing less than five pounds of marijuana, distribution of a controlled dangerous substance, distribution near school property, specifically the Franklin Elementary School, and distribution near the Franklin Public Library. Christopher McDonald, 18, of Glenwood was charged with aiding and abetting the distribution of a controlled substance.

Police said Hanley was arrested on Wednesday, April 15, and is alleged to have been selling marijuana on Tuesday, April 14, on Main Street. Police said McDonald is alleged to have assisted in the transaction. He as arrested at 9:50 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 14 at 9:50 p.m.

Police said the investigation resulted in the seizure of marijuana with a street value of several thousand dollars. Mr. Hanley was further found to be in possession of various pieces of drug paraphernalia, including specific ignition sources, specifically butane to process other forms of marijuana.

Hanley was remanded to the Sussex County Jail in lieu of $35,000 bail and McDonald was remanded to the Sussex County Jail in lieu of $5,000.00 bail.

Investigation is ongoing and additional arrests may follow.