A Freehold man accused of stealing a cell phone from a Lakewood business earlier this month is now facing additional narcotics charges after authorities allegedly discovered suspected cocaine in his possession during the jail intake process, TLS has learned.

According to Lakewood Police Captain LeRoy Marshall, officers responded to Maggie’s on Country Club Drive on May 16 following a report of a stolen cell phone. Detectives launched an investigation and identified Nicholas Shapiro, 36, of Freehold, as the suspect.

As a result of the investigation, theft charges were filed against Shapiro. On May 29, he was located and taken into custody by the Tinton Falls Police Department on an outstanding warrant connected to the case.

Police said Shapiro was transported to Lakewood Police Headquarters for processing before being lodged in the Ocean County Jail. During the intake process at the jail, corrections officers allegedly recovered a quantity of suspected cocaine from his possession, resulting in additional narcotics charges.

Lakewood Police Chief Gregory H. Meyer commended the efforts of the officers involved in the investigation and the cooperation between agencies.

“This arrest is the result of the diligent work of our officers and detectives, as well as the cooperation of our law enforcement partners,” Meyer said. “We remain committed to investigating crimes thoroughly and holding offenders accountable while continuing to keep our community safe.”

The investigation was conducted by members of the Lakewood Police Department with assistance from the Tinton Falls Police Department and Ocean County Jail staff.