Cumberland County Man Charged in Fatal Prison Drug Overdose

Maurice River Township, N.J. — A Cumberland County man is facing charges in connection with a drug overdose death inside Bayside State Prison last year, with prosecutors alleging he sold a synthetic cannabinoid to a fellow inmate who died after consuming it.

40-year-old Alfred Bishop of Leesburg was charged with strict liability drug-induced death, distribution and possession of a synthetic cannabinoid, money laundering, and conspiracy to commit money laundering following an investigation by the New Jersey Department of Corrections.

20-year-old Ashley Dawley of Camden was also charged with money laundering and conspiracy to commit money laundering in connection with the scheme.

Overdose Death Inside Bayside

According to the Cumberland County Prosecutor's Office, on April 16th, 2025, Ryan Marsh, an inmate, died at Bayside State Prison from synthetic cannabinoid intoxication. Authorities allege that Bishop, who was also incarcerated at the time, sold Marsh the drug in exchange for money. After Marsh consumed it, he overdosed and died.

Dawley is alleged to have received payment for the drug on behalf of Marsh.

Bayside State Prison in Leesburg NJ - Photo: Google Maps / Canva

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Where Each Defendant Stands

Bishop is being held at the Cumberland County Jail pending a detention hearing. Dawley was charged by summons and released on her own recognizance.

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact NJ Department of Corrections Senior Investigator Jeffrey Foca at (609) 433-4343.

The public is reminded that charges are accusations and all persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Chris Coleman is a South Jersey native and has been a cornerstone of the Atlantic City radio market since 1998. He serves as Brand Manager for WPG Talk Radio 95.5 and afternoon on-air personality for Cat Country 107.3. A five-time President's Circle award winner and Townsquare Media's 2024 Content Creator of the Year, Chris covers news, events, and stories of interest across Southern New Jersey. Story tips: chris.coleman@townsquaremedia.com