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A motor vehicle stop led to the arrest of three people on gun and drug possession charges, and a contempt of court charge, Allenhurst Police Department has announced.

Kareem Whitley, 22, of Asbury Park, Juwaun Boggs, 20, of Freehold Borough, and Marquita Morgan, 26, of Newark were all charged with possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, illegal possession of a handgun, and possession of of a controlled dangerous substance, Chief Michael Schneider [at right] said.

Morgan, the vehicle’s driver, was issued two  motor vehicle summons for improper display of license plates and having a controlled dangerous substance a motor vehicle.

Kimberly Alexander, 53, of Long Branch was taken into custody on a Monmouth County Superior Court arrest warrant.

The arrests stem from a 9 p.m. Friday traffic stop for equipment violation, according to a written statement. During the course of the stop, officers detected a strong marijuana odor coming from inside the vehicle. With the assistance of Asbury Park Police Department, a vehicle search revealed a loaded 9 mm handgun in the trunk and a large bag of marijuana in the groin area of one of the vehicle passengers.

Whitley and Boggs were remanded to Monmouth County Jail, in accordance with NJ Bail Reform guidelines; Alexander was turned over to Monmouth County Sheriff’s officers; and Morgan was issued the summonses and released. The vehicle was impounded, pending possible forfeiture.

“This is a very good arrest,” Schneider said. “Anytime an illegal weapon can be taken off the streets, it is a good thing for all communities involved. I’m always happy when a gun is taken off the streets.”

Patrolman Scott Rapolla and Special Officer Williams investigated.

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