Manahawkin Woman Charged with Drug Offenses After Traffic Stop

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A 31-year-old woman from Manahawkin, New Jersey was charged with drug-related offenses after a traffic stop in Stafford Township. Police said Patrolman O'Rourke pulled over Ashley E. Kolakowski on February 15 and developed suspicion that she may have been in possession of a controlled substance. A K-9 unit was called to the scene and alerted to the presence of narcotics, though no drugs were found in the vehicle. A subsequent search of Kolakowski allegedly uncovered methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in addressing drug-related crimes, particularly the use and possession of methamphetamine, which has become a growing problem in many communities. The case also raises questions about search and seizure procedures and the role of K-9 units in traffic stops.

The details

According to police, Patrolman O'Rourke stopped Kolakowski near Route 72 East around 12:51 a.m. on February 15. During the investigation, the officer developed suspicion that Kolakowski may have been in possession of a controlled substance. Patrolman Russell Okinsky and K-9 Buck were called to the scene, and the dog alerted to the odor of narcotics, though no drugs were found in the vehicle. Patrolman Danielle Errico later searched Kolakowski and allegedly discovered methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.

• Kolakowski was pulled over around 12:51 a.m. on February 15, 2026.
• The K-9 unit was called to the scene after the initial traffic stop.

What’s next

Kolakowski was processed and released pending a future appearance in Ocean County Superior Court, where the charges against her will be adjudicated.