Fugitive in South Jersey Marijuana Case Arrested in Mexico

A man convicted in a massive marijuana-growing operation has been extradited back to the U.S. after being captured in Mexico.

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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Jason Bacon, a 43-year-old man from Brick Township, New Jersey, was arrested in Mexico by the U.S. Marshals Service on January 15th for operating a large marijuana-growing facility in South Jersey. Bacon was convicted in absentia last year and is now being held in the Ocean County Jail awaiting sentencing.

Why it matters

This case highlights the challenges law enforcement faces in tracking down fugitives who flee the country to avoid prosecution for drug-related crimes. It also raises questions about the effectiveness of New Jersey's bail reform laws, as Bacon was initially released under the new system before fleeing.

The details

Authorities say an investigation by the Clayton Police Department in 2017 uncovered that Bacon had constructed a large greenhouse behind a vacant house on Delsea Drive that was using excessive water and electricity, indicating an illegal marijuana-growing operation. A search of the properties in Clayton and Brick Townships resulted in the seizure of over 25 pounds of marijuana, more than five pounds of hashish, marijuana plants, and a loaded handgun. Bacon was initially arrested but then released under New Jersey's bail reform laws about a year later. He then failed to appear for his trial, which was held in absentia, and a jury found him guilty on multiple charges.

  • The investigation by the Clayton Police Department began in December 2017.
  • On April 26, 2018, police executed search warrants and made the arrests.
  • Bacon was released about a year after his initial arrest due to New Jersey bail reform.
  • Bacon's trial was held in absentia on January 14, 2025, and he was found guilty.
  • Bacon was arrested in Mexico on January 15, 2026 and extradited back to New Jersey.

The players

Jason Bacon

A 43-year-old man from Brick Township, New Jersey who was convicted of operating a large marijuana-growing facility in South Jersey.

Clayton Police Department

The law enforcement agency that initiated the investigation into Bacon's marijuana-growing operation.

Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley Billhimer

The prosecutor who thanked the various law enforcement agencies involved in apprehending Bacon.

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What they’re saying

“We must continue to work together to ensure that those who engage in criminal activity are held accountable, no matter where they try to hide.”

— Bradley Billhimer, Ocean County Prosecutor

What’s next

Bacon is scheduled to be sentenced on April 17th for the charges he was convicted of in absentia.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in tracking down drug crime fugitives who flee the country, as well as the need to closely examine the effectiveness of bail reform policies in ensuring defendants appear for trial.