NEW JERSEY – A Mount Laurel man, Edward C. Mathews, has been sentenced to eight years in New Jersey State Prison for using racial slurs and harassing his neighbors. Mathews, 47, pleaded guilty to four counts of Bias Intimidation and Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance with Intent to Distribute. The charges stem from Mathews’ mistreatment of five former neighbors and the discovery of psilocin mushrooms during a search of his home.
The investigation into Mathews began on July 2, 2021, after a resident filed a harassment complaint against him. Shortly after, a Mount Laurel police officer responded to a residence where Mathews was engaged in a verbal altercation, using racial slurs directed at four residents. The investigation revealed a pattern of abuse from Mathews, including leaving a threatening note on one of his neighbors’ vehicles.
Burlington County Prosecutor LaChia L. Bradshaw expressed a strong commitment to combatting bias crimes and ensuring the safety of the community. Nobody should have to endure what these victims experienced, Bradshaw emphasized.
Mathews’ actions sparked outrage and gained widespread attention after videos of his racist rants went viral on social media platforms. The incident highlights the role of technology in exposing and condemning such behavior.
In addition to the charges related to bias intimidation, Mathews also faced a separate charge of Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance with Intent to Distribute. During the search of his home, law enforcement discovered psilocin mushrooms, known for their hallucinogenic effects.
As Mathews begins his eight-year prison sentence, the community hopes to heal from the harm caused by his actions. It is a reminder that racism and bigotry will not be tolerated, and that justice will be served.
