Prosecutor: Monmouth County Employee Dealt Drugs At County Public Works Complex

Two Monmouth County Highway Division employees have been charged with various drug offenses as part of an investigation into drug activity at the county’s public works complex, the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office announced Friday.

Scott R. Keimig, 49, of Lawrence Place in Freehold, and Christopher J. Terraghi, 21, of Wheatley Drive in Manalapan, are facing drug possession and distribution charges, Acting Monmouth County Prosecutor Christopher J. Gramiccioni said in a news release.

Keimig, a heavy equipment operator who has worked for the county for 12 years, was arrested Friday at the Monmouth County public works complex following a two-month investigation into drug possession and distribution by employees at the Center Street location. A search warrant was executed at his home and vehicle where investigators discovered nearly one pound of marijuana, Gramiccioni said.

Keimig is charged with five counts of possession of a controlled dangerous substance (Oxycodone), five counts of possession of a controlled dangerous substance (Oxycodone) with intent to distribute, five counts of distribution of a controlled dangerous substance (Oxycodone) and one count of possession of marijuana over 50 grams, he said.

Keimig is being held at the Monmouth County Correctional Institution, Freehold Township, in lieu of $20,000 bail, as set by Monmouth County Superior Court Judge Francis J. Vernoia.

Terraghi, who has been a laborer with the Highway Division for a year, was arrested on Jan. 16 and charged with one count of possession of a controlled dangerous substance (Oxycodone). He was released pending a future court date, Gramiccioni said

“Drug dealing is unacceptable, period. Monmouth County employees using and selling drugs is an egregious violation of the public trust that will not be tolerated,” Monmouth County Administrator Teri O’Connor said. “This violation serves as a reminder for any employees or contractors -- illegal drugs are not welcome in Monmouth County.”

The investigation remains active and ongoing. Investigators are encouraging those with any information to contact the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office at 800-533-7443.

Individuals wishing to provide anonymous tips or information may also call Monmouth County Crime Stoppers at 800-671-4400. Callers to Crime Stoppers remain anonymous and tipsters are eligible to receive a cash reward if the information provided leads to the arrest and prosecution of a suspect or fugitive.