HANOVER TOWNSHIP — On Monday, January 5 , Hanover Township Police arrested two individuals following an investigation that began at the Red Carpet Inn and ultimately led to the discovery of methamphetamine and multiple criminal charges.
Officer Timothy Dalgauer arrested Michelle Luchi, 39, of Hopatcong, after she provided false information regarding her identity during a traffic stop. Shortly afterward, Officer Patrick Thompson arrested Joseph Viviani, 62, of Whippany, for hindering apprehension by misidentifying Luchi to law enforcement.
Police initially responded to the Red Carpet Inn on a report of a possible drug-related incident. Upon arrival, officers were informed that two individuals had recently left the motel to allegedly purchase narcotics.
A vehicle matching the suspect description was later observed traveling along Route 10. After witnessing several traffic violations, Officer Dalgauer conducted a motor vehicle stop. During the stop, the female passenger was found not wearing a seatbelt and claimed she did not have identification, identifying herself as “Tanya Mckevitt.” Viviani also confirmed that name to officers.
Given the suspicion of ongoing drug activity, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Canine Unit was requested. The K-9 alerted to the presence of controlled dangerous substances (CDS) in the vehicle. After Viviani refused to consent to a search, the vehicle was impounded and secured while police sought a warrant.
Subsequent investigation revealed that the female passenger was actually Michelle Luchi, who had multiple outstanding warrants for her arrest. Both Luchi and Viviani were transported to police headquarters and later lodged at the Morris County Correctional Facility, pending detention hearings.
Several days later, a search warrant was granted. Upon executing the warrant, officers recovered methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and a prescription legend drug from the vehicle. Luchi, still in custody, was served with additional charges. Viviani, who had since been released, failed to respond to police. A complaint warrant was issued, and he was entered into the NCIC database as a wanted person.
Editor’s Note: The court’s rules require us to include a statement that states: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations, and the defendant and/or defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
