A Medford resident was recently arrested for operating a moonshine distillery out of his residence, according to police.
Moonshine distilleries are rarely heard of or discovered in South Jersey. The case is comparable to the Discovery Channel show “Moonshiners.”
The case was the first of its kind for Medford’s Chief of Police Richard Meder.
According to Meder, the investigation began in December in Red Oak Trail residential area following a tip to police.
After approximately three weeks of investigation, the Medford Township Police executed a search warrant at the suspected residence.
“He had a still on location. It was not functioning at the time,” said Meder.
Police seized the still.
In addition, police removed two shotguns, one rifle, one muzzle loader, one rifle pellet gun, one pellet handgun, two handguns, one of which had a defaced serial number, and an assortment of fireworks during the search of the premises, according to the report.
Additionally, over 3.5 ounces of marijuana, a digital scale, assorted smoking pipes and a set of throwing stars were removed during the investigation.
The suspect was charged with multiple offenses including unlawful possession of handguns, unlawful possession of rifles, unlawful possession of shotguns, unlawful possession of throwing stars, possession of a defaced firearm, possession of weapons by certain persons, possession of marijuana, possession with intent to distribute marijuana, possession of firearms while committing a CDS offense, possession of an unregistered still and possession of CDS paraphernalia, the report said.
Police did not release any further details pertaining to the case.
The suspect posted $54,300 bail and was released pending a Burlington County Superior Court hearing.
