Local Restaurant Owners Charged In Drugs, Money Laundering Scheme

MANAHAWKIN – Authorities have arrested two local restaurant owners in connection to drugs and money laundering, officials said.

On July 10, police executed search warrants in Manahawkin, Keyport, Hewitt and West Nyack NY. As a result, they seized about $200,000 along with several vehicles, ATVs, a trailer, and a shipping container.

Milford Police had previously executed search warrants in May of 2024 at five Bud Bus locations in the Township. At the time, that seized about 150 lbs. of marijuana along with about $11,000.

Subsequently, a warrant was issued for 47-year-old William Schlette of West Nyack, New York. Schlette and 42-year-old Jennifer Schlette, who both own The Salty Chick Inc. restaurant in Manahawkin were arrested.

William Schlette was arrested on the active warrant from May 2024: possession of more than 25 pounds of marijuana with the intent to distribute (First degree crime), possession of more than six ounces of marijuana (Fourth degree crime), and five counts of Conspiracy (Fourth degree crime).

He was additionally charged with possession of more than 25 pounds of marijuana with the intent to distribute (First degree crime), possession of more than six ounces of marijuana (Fourth degree crime), Racketeering (Second Degree), Money Laundering (First Degree Crime), Deceptive Business practices (Disorderly Persons Offense).

Jennifer Schlette was charged with Money Laundering (First Degree Crime).

Both were remanded to a County Correctional Facility, pending a Central Judicial Processing Appearance.