CAr accident leads to drug arrest

MONROE-A three-car accident Wednesday afternoon on Route 17M yielded more than dented fenders. Police confiscated 2.5 pounds of marijuana, part of which was packaged and ready for sale for $20 a bag, Monroe police said. Christopher Ferrino, 31, of 1090 Glen Wild Road, Woodridge, was arrested after police found a small amount of pot on the passenger side of Ferrino's vehicle while they were investigating the damage following an accident that occurred near the Goose Pond Plaza. Further investigation lead to the discovery of a digital scale and $700 in $20 bills. Police said the money was the proceeds from the sale of marijuana. But Ferrino told police that he was not selling the drugs in Monroe; he only works in the town. Police said he is employed as a mechanic at the Mansion Ridge Golf Course. He is charged with fourth-degree possession of marijuana, a misdemeanor; second-degree criminal use of drug paraphernalia and second-degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a vehicle. He was arraigned in Monroe Town Court and sent to the Orange County Jail in lieu of $1,000. He is scheduled to appear back in court on April 27.