Man arrested on DUI, heroin charges in Franklin

FRANKLIN, NJ — A Branchville man was arrested on drug and driving under the influence charges following a motor vehicle accident at a fast-food restaurant Oct. 19.

Richard W. Lafrenz Jr., 56, of Branchville, was arrested after police responded to a reported accident in the drive-through of Wendy’s at 180 Route 23.

Patrol Officer Nicholas Della Fera and Sgt. Robert Vander Ploeg arrived at the scene, where Wendy’s staff directed them to Lafrenz’s vehicle.

Lafrenz refused sobriety testing and was placed under arrest for driving under the influence, according to police.

Officer Della Fera located heroin in Lafrenz’s vehicle during the investigation, police said.

Lafrenz was charged with possession of heroin, a third-degree crime, and use/under the influence of a controlled dangerous substance, a disorderly persons offense.

He was also issued motor vehicle summonses related to possession of narcotics in a motor vehicle and driving under the influence.

Lafrenz was transferred to a medical facility to receive care and is pending his first appearance before Sussex County Superior Court, in accordance with the New Jersey Bail Reform Act.