Weekly Police Blotter

Weekly Police Blotter

June 2nd thru June 7th, 2015

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• Traffic Accident & Aggravated Assault (Arrest) – On Sunday, June 7, 2015, at 12:05 p.m., Officer Daniel Ricciardella and Officer Christopher Meyler responded to the area of Route 9 and Laurel Boulevard in Lanoka Harbor for a report of a motor vehicle accident in the roadway. It was also reported that one driver had assaulted the other, and as a result, the other driver was on the ground unconscious and unresponsive. Upon arrival, Officers found a 50-year-old male from Robbinsville, NJ, unconscious in the roadway. The man was treated by members of Lanoka Harbor First Aid Squad and transported to Community Medical Center for treatment. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the other driver, 27-year-old Michael P. O’Hare, Jr. of N. Oak Road in Lanoka Harbor for Aggravated Assault after it was determined he punched the subject in the face with a closed fist rendering him unconsciousness. Michael O’Hare was transported to headquarters, processed, and charged with aggravated assault. Daniel LaRochelle of Robbinsville was issued a traffic summons for improper passing.

• Shoplifting (Arrest) – On Sunday, June 7, 2015, at 4:10 p.m., Officer Christopher Meyler responded to the Walmart, 580 Rt. 9 N. in Lanoka Harbor, for a report of a shoplifter that had been detained by loss prevention employees. The loss prevention associate reported that he observed 36-year-old Brian Coates of Driftwood Avenue in Manahawkin attempt to walk out of the store with a pair of boots without paying. Brian Coates was placed under arrest, transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters, processed and charged on a criminal summons with Shoplifting merchandise valued at $34.97.

• DUI (Arrest) – On Monday, June 8, 2015, at 12:26 a.m., Officer Anthony Sarno conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle that was failing to maintain lane. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the driver, 33-year-old Daniel Mollicone of Forked River, for DUI. Daniel Mollicone was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where he was processed and issued traffic summonses for Failure to Maintain Lane, Reckless Driving, and DUI.

• Theft – On Saturday, June 06, 2015, Officer Brian Holt responded to Algonquin Trail in Forked River for a report of theft. The complainant reported that between Saturday, May 30, 2015 and Saturday, June 06, 2015, an unknown person or persons stole a lawn ornament from the front of her house. The lawn ornament is described as a green and white frog approximately 14-16 inches in diameter and approximately 10 inches high. The ornament is valued at $50.

• Criminal Mischief – On Saturday, June 6, 2015, 10:45 p.m., Officer Brian Holt was on patrol when he observed damage to five township signs that were posted on the fence of the Lake Barnegat beach. The damage to the signs was consistent with someone trying to pull the signs from the fence. The damage to the signs is estimated at $200.

• Criminal Mischief – On Thursday, June 4, 2015, 2:48 p.m., Officer Michael Hein responded to U.S Army Outfitters at 118 South Main Street in Forked River for a report of criminal mischief. The store owner reported that when he arrived at work, he observed that the lower left corner of the store window was shattered. The window was not damaged when they left the store at approximately 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 3, 2015, but upon arriving at work at 1:30 p.m. on June 4, 2015, he observed the damage. A piece of metal that was located inside the store is believed to be the object that had been thrown through the window. The window is valued at approximately $500.

• DUI (Arrest) – On Wednesday, June 3, 2015, at 8:40 p.m., Officer Elton Copes and Sergeant Ronald Buxton responded to the Home Depot parking lot located at 244 Route 9 North in Forked River in reference to a possible intoxicated driver who was reported to be leaving the parking lot. Officer Copes observed the vehicle pulling onto Route 9 and conducted a traffic stop. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the driver, 32-year-old Frank O. Pulido, Jr. of Bayville, NJ for DUI. Frank Pulido was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where he was processed and issued traffic summonses for Failure to Maintain Lane, Reckless Driving, Failure to Exhibit Documents, and DUI. The vehicle being operated by Frank Pulido, Jr. was impounded pursuant to John’s Law.

• Theft – On Wednesday, June 3, 2015, at 4:46 p.m., Officer Elton Copes responded to Whitcomb Road in reference to a theft. The resident reported that between 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 2, 2015 and 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 3, 2015, an unknown person or persons stole a silver, 8 horsepower, Mariner 2-stroke boat motor from a boat that was stored on the property.

• Drug Possession (Arrest) – On Thursday, June 4, 2015, at 2:00 a.m. Officer Dimitrios Tsarnas was on patrol when he observed a subject slumped over on the curb along Route 9 South in Forked River near Mill Street. Officer Tsarnas approached the subject and was able to awaken him. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 38-year-old James L. Duff of Clearview Street in Forked River for and outstanding $500 Mount Holly Municipal Court warrant as well as for possession of Heroin which James Duff had in his possession. James Duff was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where he was processed and charged on a criminal warrant with Possession of Heroin. Bail was set at $10,000. James Duff was transported to the Ocean County Correctional Facility in default of bail.

Weekly Police Blotter

May 27th thru June 1st, 2015

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• Drug Distribution (Arrests) – On the afternoon of Monday, June 1, 2015, Lacey Detectives conducted a traffic stop on Clairmore Avenue in Lanoka Harbor. The stop was conducted as part of an ongoing narcotics investigation. Interviews of the vehicle occupants and a search of the vehicle led to the discovery of 209 bags of Heroin. The driver, 64-year-old Daniel Kennedy of 435 Sycamore Drive in Lanoka Harbor, and a passenger, 54-year-old Lorraine Walters of 26 Laurel Boulevard in Lanoka Harbor, were arrested and lodged in the Ocean County Correctional Facility. Bail was set for each at $50,000 for charges of Heroin Possession and Intent to Distribute Heroin. Lacey Detectives were assisted by a K-9 unit from the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department. Lacey Patrol Officers Christopher Meyler and Brian Holt also assisted in the arrest.

• DUI (Arrest) – On Monday, June 1, 2015, at 5:19 p.m., Officer John D. Simonson responded to the area of Whitcomb Road in Forked River for a report of an erratic driver. A short time later, Officer Simonson observed the vehicle matching the description provided by the caller and conducted a traffic stop on the 500 block of Lakeside Drive North. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the driver, 24-year-old William Ulaky of Glen Oak Drive in Forked River, for DUI. He was transported to police headquarters, processed, and served with summonses for DUI, Reckless Driving, and Failure to Maintain Lane. The vehicle he was operating was impounded pursuant to John’s Law.

• Shoplifting (Arrest) – On Monday, June 1, 2015, at 4:35 p.m., Officer Patrick Watkins responded to the Walmart located at 580 Route 9 North in Lanoka Harbor for an adult female shoplifter in custody. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 20-year-old Jessica J. Englebrook of Franklin Avenue in Seaside Heights for shoplifting merchandise valued at $59.79. She was transported to police headquarters, processed, and charged with Shoplifting.

• Vehicle Fire – On Sunday, May 31, 2015, at 12:14 p.m., Officer Michael Eden responded to a residence on the 100 block of Carriage Way in Forked River for a vehicle fire. Upon arrival, Officer Eden observed the vehicle fully engulfed in flames. The Forked River Fire Department, along with the New Jersey State Forest Fire Service, responded and extinguished the fire. The preliminary investigation revealed that just prior to the fire being reported, the homeowner’s grandson was assisting with cutting up the vehicle for scrap metal with a reciprocating saw and an oxy-acetelene torch when the fire began. The juvenile sustained a minor hand injury as a result. Lacey Township EMS responded and treated the injury.

• DUI with Accident (Arrest) – On Sunday, May 31, 2015, at 1:04 a.m., Officers Patrick Watkins and John McKee responded to Lacey Road and Newark Avenue for a report of a two-car motor vehicle accident. Preliminary investigation revealed that both vehicles were traveling east on Lacey Road when vehicle number two collided with the rear of vehicle number one. The driver of vehicle number two attempted to flee the scene on foot; however, he was taken into custody by an off-duty officer. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of driver number two, identified as 24-year-old Thomas Pierson, 4^th of Hudson Parkway in Manchester, NJ for DUI. He was processed and charged on a warrant with Assault by Auto and Resisting Arrest. Bail was set in the amount of $25,000. In addition to the criminal charges, Thomas Pierson 4^th was charged on traffic summonses with DUI, Reckless Driving, Suspended and Expired Driver’s License, and Having an Open Container of Alcohol in a Motor Vehicle. The vehicle Thomas Pierson 4^th was operating was impounded pursuant to John’s Law. Thomas Pierson, 4^th sustained a minor head injury and was treated at Community Medical Center. He was later lodged in the Ocean County Correctional Facility in default of the bail. The driver of vehicle number one suffered an injury to her forearm. She was treated by the first aid squad at the scene.

• Burglary and Theft (Arrests) – On Saturday, May 30, 2015, at 11:47 a.m., Officers Daniel Ricciardella and Michael Eden responded to the 100 block of Jones Road in Forked River for a possible burglary. The caller reported that she had reason to believe an unknown person or persons unlawfully entered her summer home. The complainant reported that the home should be unoccupied and no one had permission to be within the residence. Upon arrival at the residence, officers observed two females, later identified as 18-year-old Caitlyn Gortatowski of Lakeside Drive South in Forked River and a 16-year-old juvenile female from Forked River, running out of the back door of the residence. The suspects were quickly apprehended and taken into custody. Investigation at the scene revealed signs of forced entry to the residence. Both suspects were transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters and processed. Caitlyn Gortatowski was charged on a criminal warrant with Burglary, Theft, and Criminal Mischief with bail set in the amount of $5,000. Caitlyn Gortatowski posted full bail and was later released. The juvenile was charged on a juvenile complaint with Burglary, Theft, and Criminal Mischief. She was released to the custody of her parent.

• (Update) Assault by Auto and Warrant Arrest – On Sunday, May 24, 2015, at 9:46 a.m., Officer Darrell Nick investigated a serious two car motor vehicle crash on W. Lacey Road near mile marker 10 that resulted in driver number two, John Turner, being flown to Jersey Shore Medical Center for treatment. Driver number one, identified as Anthony Santore of Long Beach Boulevard in Beach Haven, NJ, had received several traffic summonses as a result of the crash. On Friday, May 30, 2015, Officer Darrell Nick criminally charged Anthony Santore with Assault by Auto as a result of utilizing a cellular phone during the accident which caused bodily injury. Bail for the offense was set at $500. On the evening of May 30, 2015, at 9:44 p.m., Anthony Santore was taken into custody by the Long Beach Township Police Department. This agency responded and took custody of him. Anthony Santore was transported to police headquarters and processed on the warrant. In addition to the Lacey Township warrant, a separate warrant issued by the Hamilton Township Municipal Court in the amount of $2,500 was located for his arrest. Anthony Santore was processed on both warrants and released after posting bail.

• Underage Consumption of Alcohol – On Friday, May 29, 2015, at 9:37 p.m., Officer John Mckee responded to the Lacey Township Middle School located at 660 Denton Avenue in Forked River for a report of an intoxicated male juvenile outside on the side of the building. Officer McKee arrived on scene and located the juvenile on the side of the school. The 14-year-old juvenile was highly intoxicated and in need of immediate medical attention. Lacey Township EMS arrived on scene and transported the juvenile to CMC for treatment. The matter is under continuing investigation.

• Shoplifting and Warrant (Arrest) – On Thursday, May 28, 2015, at 5:58 p.m., Officer Kymberly Gudgeon along with Officer Charles May, Officer Jason Lee, and Sgt. Ron Buxton responded to the Lanoka Harbor Walmart for the report of a male shoplifter fleeing from Loss Prevention employees with a large flat screen television. Upon arrival of the officers, loss prevention employees directed officers to a female, identified as 50-year-old Jennifer Mcquiggan, in a Beige Honda CRV parked a short distance from the main entrance doors of the Walmart. Loss prevention also advised officers that two males were previously with the female at the Honda CRV. One male subject reportedly fled the scene with a flat screen Vizio television that he was about to load into Honda CRV. Another male reportedly walked across the Walmart parking lot traveling toward the Route 9 entrance carrying several Walmart shopping bags containing various items. All three of these individuals reportedly had been inside this Walmart store earlier in the day without making a purchase, then reportedly returned again and separated once in the store. One of the males, later identified as William E. Farrell, Jr., had reportedly loaded a shopping cart with miscellaneous items valued at $553. All the items were placed into Walmart shopping bags creating the appearance that the items were purchased and bagged as if he had just left a register station. The other male, later identified as Timothy M. Smith, reportedly loaded the Vizio flat screen television valued at $388 into a cart. Both subjects reportedly walked right through the front door exiting the store without paying for the merchandise. Jennifer M. Mcquiggan reportedly shoplifted items by placing the items in a thermal bag as well as her purse. The combined value of the items reported shoplifted by Jennifer M. Mcquiggan was $16.29. Jennifer M. Mcquiggan and William Farrell were arrest in the parking lot. Timothy Smith ran across Route 9 with the television in hand into the wooded area behind the Spring Oaks Assisted Living Facility. Officer May followed Timothy Smith’s path through the woods and located him walking on Bayberry Drive. Officer May located and recovered the hidden television in the woods. All three subjects were arrested and charged with Shoplifting. Jennifer M. Mcquiggan was also issued a summons for a suspended vehicle registration and her vehicle was impounded. William E. Farrell, Jr. had an outstanding warrant from the Camden City Municipal Court and was transported to Ocean County Correctional Facility.

• Criminal Mischief – On Thursday, May 28, 2015, at 3:18 p.m., Detective Lieutenant Christopher Cornelius was traveling north on Route 9 in the area of Nautilus Boulevard in Forked River when he observed two vehicles pulled off to the side of the road. An investigation at the scene determined that a road rage incident had occurred. During the incident, the accused, identified as 39-year-old Edward Nacovsky of Ocean Avenue in Beachwood, NJ, reportedly threw a cigarette lighter at the victim’s vehicle while in Lacey Township causing damage estimated in the amount of $200. Edward Nacovsky was arrested for criminal mischief and harassment. He was transported to police headquarters and processed. Edward Nacovsky was charged on a criminal summons with criminal mischief and harassment.

• Theft – On Thursday, May 28, 2015, at 1:55 p.m., Officer Michael Hein responded to the 1200 block of Taylor Lane in Forked River for a theft of a bicycle. The complainant reported that between 4:00 p.m. on May 27, 2015 and 1:45 p.m. on May 28, 2015, an unknown person or persons stole her orange Huffy Beach bicycle valued at $90 from the side of her residence.

• Criminal Mischief (Business) – On Thursday, May 28, 2015, at 8:45 a.m., Officer Michael Hein responded to the 400 block of Lacey Road in Forked River for damage. The complainant reported that between 5:30 p.m. on May 27, 2015 and 8:45 a.m. on May 28, 2015, an unknown person or persons damaged several planters on the front exterior of the business. Damage was estimated at $75.

• Criminal Mischief (Township Property) – On Wednesday, May 27, 2015, at 5:54 p.m., Officer Elton Copes responded to Clune Park for a report of possible criminal mischief. The complainant reported that during the overnight hours of Tuesday, May 26, 2015 into Wednesday, May 27, 2015, an unknown person or persons dented the bottom of the garage door at the Lacey Lacrosse Team garage. Damage to the garage door of the building was estimated at $600.

Weekly Police Blotter

May 20th thru 26th, 2015

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• Criminal Mischief (Residence) – On Monday, May 25, 2015, at 12:23 p.m.,  Officer Frederick Anderson responded to the 900 block of Meadowlark Drive in Lanoka Harbor for damage to a residence. The complainant reported that between April 5, 2015 and May 25, 2015, an unknown person or persons shot several BB pellets at the siding and window frame causing damage in the amount of $150.

• Criminal Mischief, DUI and Disorderly Conduct (Arrests) – On Monday, May 25, 2015, at 3:44 a.m., Officers Anthony Sarno, Scott Keefe, and Patrick Watkins responded to the area of Snipe Road and Pheasant Hollow Drive in Lanoka Harbor for a report of two males fighting in the street. An investigation at the scene revealed that 20-year-old Nicholas J. Brembos of Sinclair Avenue in Lanoka Harbor and 20-year-old William R. Belford of Seaspray Road in Manahawkin, NJ, were involved in a mutual fight. During the fight, a mailbox belonging to a residence on the 200 block of Snipe Road was damaged. As a result, both subjects were arrested for Disorderly Conduct (Mutual Fighting) and Criminal Mischief, for damaging the mailbox valued at $130. In addition, William R. Belford was arrested for operating his vehicle DUI. Both subjects were transported to police headquarters and processed. Nicholas Brembos was released after receiving a criminal summons for Disorderly Conduct and Criminal Mischief. William Belford was released after receiving a criminal summons for Disorderly Conduct and Criminal Mischief. In addition, he received traffic summonses for DUI and Underage DUI. The vehicle William Belford was operating was impounded pursuant to John’s Law.

• Warrant Arrest – On Sunday, May 24, 2015, at 9:37 p.m., Sergeant Robert Flynn conducted a traffic stop on Alpine Street near Harrison Avenue in Forked River. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the driver, identified as 33-year-old Amanda L. Malota of Forked River on an outstanding warrant. The warrant was issued by the Lacey Township Municipal Court in the amount of $500. She was transported to police headquarters and processed. Amanda Malota was released after posting full bail. In addition, she was issued traffic summonses for Failure to Stop and Driving with a Suspended License.

• DUI and Drug Possession (Arrest) – On Sunday, May 24, 2015, at 4:03 p.m., Officer Daniel Ricciardella conducted a traffic stop in the parking lot of 524 Lacey Road in Forked River. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the driver, 34-year-old Dennis W. Miller of Haines Road in Toms River, for DUI. In addition, he was found to be in possession of Marijuana. Dennis Miller was transported to police headquarters and processed. He was released after receiving traffic summonses for DUI, Reckless Driving, CDS in a Motor Vehicle and Speeding. In addition, he received a criminal summons for Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. The vehicle he was operating was impounded pursuant to John’s Law.

• Traffic Accident – On Sunday, May 24, 2015, at 9:46 a.m., Officer Darrell Nick responded to the area of West Lacey Road, MM 10, for a traffic accident. The preliminary investigation revealed that the driver of vehicle #1, identified as 40-year-old Anthony Santore of Beach Haven, NJ, was traveling eastbound on Lacey Road when he crossed over the double yellow line and sideswiped vehicle #2 which was traveling west on Lacey Road. Vehicle #2 left the roadway and struck several trees on the north side of Lacey Road. The driver of vehicle #2, identified as 48-year-old John Turner of Waretown, NJ, sustained back and neck injuries and was flown by helicopter to Jersey Shore Medical Center. Anthony Santore received traffic summonses for a Cell Phone violation, Reckless Driving, and Failure to Maintain Lane. The Forked River and Bamber Lakes Fire Departments, along with the Lacey Township First Aid Squad, and Monoc Paramedics responded to the scene. The accident is under investigation and additional charges are pending.

• DUI (Arrest) – On Sunday, May 24, 2015, at 2:32 a.m., Officer Scott Keefe conducted a traffic stop on Lacey Road near Williams Avenue in Forked River. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 59-year-old Connie Dibenedetti of Forked River for DUI. She was transported to police headquarters and processed. Connie DiBenedetti was released after receiving motor vehicle summonses for DUI, Reckless Driving, Following too Closely, Failure to Signal, and Failure to Maintain Lane. The vehicle she was operating was impounded pursuant to John’s Law.

• Criminal Mischief (Township Property) – On Sunday, May 24, 2015, at approximately 1:00 a.m., Officer Scott Keefe was patrolling Clune Park, 740 Sandyhook Drive in Forked River, when he located significant damage to the park equipment. Between 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 23, 2015, and 1:00 a.m., on May 24, 2015, vandals spray-painted graffiti on the buildings, signs, and playground equipment throughout the park with words and symbols including profanity, causing more than $2,000 worth of damage. As a result of the damage, the park had to be closed for a two days while the graffiti was removed. On Tuesday, May 26, 2015, Detective Brian Flynn began a follow-up investigation into the criminal mischief. As a result of a thorough investigation, which included viewing video at several of the local stores which sell spray paint, Detective Flynn identified 5 teen girls who were responsible for the damage. As a result, 4 juvenile females, ages 13, 13, 13, and 15, all from Forked River, were taken into custody. An adult female, identified as 19-year-old Bianca Soliz of Beach Boulevard in Forked River, was arrested. Each was charged with Criminal Mischief exceeding $2,000. In addition, Bianca Soliz was charged with Child Endangerment. All subjects were processed at police headquarters.

• Theft (Residence) – On Friday, May 23, 2015, at 2:24 p.m., Special Officer Edgar Lenkauskas responded to the 1200 block of Olds Street in Forked River for a theft report. The complainant reported that between the hours of 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. on May 23, 2015, her white hummingbird mailbox cover valued at $50 was stolen from the front yard.

• DUI (Arrest) – On Friday, May 23, 2015, at 11:53 p.m., Officer Dimitri Tsarnas conducted a traffic stop on Beach Boulevard and Biscayne Drive in Forked River. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the driver, 49-year-old Thomas Eckhart of Forked River, for DUI. He was transported to police headquarters and processed. Thomas Eckhart was released after receiving traffic summonses for DUI, Reckless Driving, Right Turn on Red Violation, and Failure to Maintain Lane. The vehicle he was operating was impounded pursuant to John’s Law.

• Underage Consumption of Alcohol (Formal Charges) – On Saturday, May 23, 2015, at 10:21 p.m., Officers John McKee, Scott Keefe, John Simonson, and Patrick Watkins responded to a Carr Court residence in Forked River for a complaint of a party involving juveniles consuming alcohol. Investigation at the scene led to several juvenile complaints being signed for the Lacey Township ordinance prohibiting the underage consumption of alcohol in a private residence. In total, 8 juveniles, including: two 17-year-old female juveniles from Forked River; two 16-year-old female juveniles from Forked River; three 17-year-old female juveniles from Lanoka Harbor; and one 16-year-old male juvenile from Bayville, NJ, were charged with Underage Consumption of Alcohol in a Private Residence. In addition, several adults received a Complaint Summons for Underage Consumption of Alcohol in a Private Residence, including: 18-year-old Michael Bocchini 4^th of Lanoka Harbor; 18-year-old Lucas Z. Dittenhofer of Forked River; 20-year-old Robert J. Napoleon of Lanoka Harbor; 18-year-old Nicholas J. Koenig of Forked River, 18-year-old George E. Sayre 5^th of Lanoka Harbor, and 19-year-old Amanda L. Lahaye of Forked River. Amanda Lahaye also received a Criminal Summons for Making Alcohol Available to Persons Under the Legal Age. All adults were issued a Complaint Summons at the scene. The juveniles were released to a parent or guardian and charged on juvenile complaints.

• Theft – On Friday, May 22, 2015, at 7:11 p.m., Officer John D. Simonson responded to the 700 block of Spruce Road in Lanoka Harbor, NJ, for a theft report. The victim reported that between Thursday, May 21, 2015 and Friday, May 22, 2015, an unknown person or persons stole a green BMX bicycle valued at $120 from the front yard of the residence.

• Structure Fire – On Thursday, May 21, 2015, at 6:58 p.m., Officers Anthony Sarno and John D. Simonson responded to the 1500 block of Lakeside Drive South in Forked River for a structure fire. The caller reported that the residents and animals were out of the home. Upon arrival 10 to 15 foot flames were observed coming from the second floor of the residence. The Forked River Fire Department responded and extinguished the blaze. Lacey Detective Brian Flynn and the Ocean County Fire Marshal responded to the scene. This fire is currently under continuing investigation. This was the second such fire call at the residence within two days. The day prior, on Wednesday, May 20, 2015, at 8:11 p.m., Officer Elton Copes responded to the residence for a report of a structure fire. Upon arrival, the upstairs residence was full of smoke; however, no flames were observed. The Forked River Fire Department and the Ocean County Fire Marshal responded. The investigation revealed that a window air conditioner, along with several other electrical devices, were plugged into an outlet which caused it to overheat and smoke.

• Criminal Mischief (Township Property) – Officer Kymberly Gudgeon responded to the trestle along the Cedar Creek in Lanoka Harbor with a report of criminal mischief to fencing. The Lacey Township DPW reported that an unknown person or persons completely destroyed the fence located at the trestle. The damage was estimated at $1,500.

• Criminal Mischief and Attempted Burglary – on Thursday, May 21, 2015, at 11:31 a.m., Officer Daniel Ricciardella responded to Hill Top Court in Lanoka Harbor for a suspicious incident. The complainant reported that just prior to contacting the police department, he arrived at the residence and located a small black knife by the front door. In addition, he located several scratches on the door and door jamb. The complainant stated that the incident occurred between Tuesday, May 19, 2015 and May 21, 2015. No entry was made to the residence. The damage is estimated at $50.

• Theft and Criminal Mischief – On Tuesday, May 19, 2015, at 11:36 a.m., Officer Noah Schaffer responded to the 1700 block of Hillwood Road in Forked River for a theft report. The complainant reported that within the prior ten days, an unknown person or persons entered the crawl space underneath the residence where they cut and stole copper piping. In addition, the copper piping from the outside air conditioning unit was also cut and stolen. The theft is valued at $1,000 and the cost to replace it is valued at an additional $700. The residence was unoccupied at the time of the theft.  The incident is under investigation.

Weekly Police Blotter

May 12th thru May 19th, 2015

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• Robbery (UPDATE) – Conspiracy to Commit Theft, Theft, and Filing a Fictitious Report (Arrests) – At approximately 4:40 a.m., April 2, 2015, the overnight employee, Ronnivictoria Birkner of the 7-11 store at 524 Lacey Road in Forked River, reported a robbery. Upon the arrival of officers, 20-year-old Ronnivictoria Birkner reported that an unknown masked man entered the store demanding money. The store’s video surveillance system captured a masked subject entering the store, the employee turning over $975 cash, and the masked subject leaving on foot. Throughout the course of the investigation, Lacey detectives spoke with several witnesses and reviewed numerous hours of surveillance video that ultimately led to the arrest of two subjects. On Tuesday, May 19, 2015, Detective Robert Surtees arrested and charged Ronnivictoria Birkner of Lakeside Drive North in Forked River with Theft, Conspiracy to Commit Theft, and Filing a Fictitious Report. Birkner’s boyfriend, 21-year-old Jordin Henry of Penn Avenue North in Forked River, was arrested at his home after officers located him hiding in the attic. Henry was charged with Theft and Conspiracy to Commit Theft. Henry was also wanted by the East Brunswick Municipal Court after failing to appear in court for drug charges. Jordin Henry was lodged in the Ocean County Correctional Facility in default of $20,500 cash bail. Birkner was released on her own recognizance pending a court appearance.

• Theft from Auto – On Monday, May 18, 2015, at 6:45 a.m., Officer Frederick Anderson responded to the 800 block of Leeward Drive in Forked River for a theft report. The victim reported that between 7:00 p.m. on May 17, 2015 and 6:30 a.m. on May 18, 2015, an unknown person or persons entered his unlocked vehicle that was parked in the driveway and stole his wallet. The total theft is valued at approximately $115.

• Criminal Mischief (Boat) – On Sunday, May 17, 2015, at 2:49 p.m., Officer Michael Hein responded to Townsends Marina, located at 221 East Lacey Road in Forked River, for damage to a boat. The complainant reported that between 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 16, 2015 and 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 17, 2015, an unknown person or persons entered on to his dry-docked boat and caused damage totaling approximately $500. The damage included components such as a broken console and radio.

• Theft – On Sunday, May 17, 2015, at 8:03 a.m., Officer Michael Hein responded to the 100 block of Seabright Road in Forked River for a theft report. The complainant reported that between 8:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 16, 2015, and 8:00 a.m. on Sunday, May 17, 2015, an unknown person or persons stole his green and white lighthouse mailbox valued at $200 from the front of his residence.

• Shoplifting and Possession of Syringe (Arrest) – On Saturday, May 16, 2015, at 6:04 p.m., Officers Patrick Watkins and Julie Barcalow responded to the Walmart, located at 580 Route 9 North in Lanoka Harbor, for an adult female shoplifter. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 33-year-old Niccole Volkens of Cedar Swamp Road in Jackson, NJ for shoplifting merchandise valued at $577. In addition, she was found to be in possession of a hypodermic syringe. Niccole Volkens was transported to police headquarters and processed. She was charged with Shoplifting and Possession of a Hypodermic Syringe. In addition, Niccole Volkens received a Defiant Trespass charge for trespassing on Walmart property. She had been given prior notice against trespassing on the Walmart property.

• Shoplifting (Arrest) – On Saturday, May 16, 2015, at 9:40 p.m., Officers John McKee and Anthony Sarno responded to Walmart, located at 580 Route 9 North in Lanoka Harbor, for an adult female shoplifter. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 48-year-old Donna Gilmour of Augusta Road in Whiting, NJ for shoplifting merchandise valued at $121. Additionally, Donna Gilmour had two outstanding Municipal Court warrants for her arrest. Warrant number one (1) was issued from the Newark Municipal Court in the amount of $300; and warrant number two (2) was issued by the North Brunswick Municipal Court in the amount of $855. Donna Gilmour was processed and charged with Shoplifting.

• Criminal Mischief (Township Property) – On Saturday, May 16, 2015, at 12:18 p.m., Officer Brian Holt was patrolling Clune Park, located at 740 Sandy Hook Drive in Forked River, when he located damage to Township Property. During the overnight hours of May 15, 2015, into May 16, 2015, an unknown person or persons utilized a permanent marker to write profanities on the playground equipment. The cost to remove the profanities was valued at $50.

• Criminal Mischief (Township Property) – On Friday, May 15, 2015, at 11:11 p.m., Officer Patrick Watkins was patrolling Gille Park, located at 56 Manchester Avenue in Forked River, when he checked the buildings and located the men’s bathroom. During the day on Friday, May 15, 2015, an unknown person or persons utilized an unknown object to scratch words into the bathroom stall. Damage was estimated at $50 for repairs.

• Theft – On Friday, May 15, 2015, at 8:48 p.m., Officer Patrick Watkins was dispatched to the 600 block of Center Street in Forked River for a theft report. The complainant reported that between 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. on Friday, May 15, 2015, an unknown person or persons stole his black and purple Mongoose bicycle valued at $100 from the exterior area of the garage.

• Shoplifting – On Friday, May 15, 2015, at 4:27 p.m., Officers John Simonson and Patrick Watkins responded to the Walmart, located at 580 Route 9 North in Lanoka Harbor, for an adult male shoplifter. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 22-year-old John Misak of Ocean Gate Avenue in Ocean Gate for shoplifting merchandise valued at $174. John Misak was transported to police headquarters, processed, and charged with Shoplifting.

• Theft – On Friday, May 15, 2015, at 1:15 p.m., Officer Daniel Ricciardella responded to the TD Bank, located at 106 Route 9 in Forked River, for a theft report. The complainant reported that within the past three months, an unknown person or persons stole one of the three air conditioning units from the north side of the building. The air conditioning unit is valued at $4,000.

• Theft from a Boat – On Friday, May 15, 2015, at 10:47 a.m., Officer Brian Holt responded to Grant Marina, located at 120 Lakeside Drive East in Forked River, for a theft report. The complainant stated that between May 4, 2015, and May 14, 2015, an unknown person or persons entered on to his dry-docked boat and stole his Garmin High Definition 12-inch touch screen GPS, model number 5712, valued at $5,000.

• Theft – On Friday, May 15, 2015, at 7:26 a.m., Officer Evan Androcy responded to the 1700 block of Serpentine Drive in Forked River for a stolen bicycle. The complainant reported that between the evening of Wednesday, May 13, 2015, and the morning hours of Thursday, May 14, 2015, an unknown person or persons stole her blue, 20 inch, Huffy bicycle valued at $180 from the front porch of the residence.

• Theft – On Thursday, May 14, 2015, at 10:53 a.m., Officer Christopher Meyler responded to the 700 block of Bowsprit Point in Lanoka Harbor for a theft report. The complainant reported that between Thursday, May 7, 2015 and Wednesday, May 13, 2015, an unknown person or persons stole several Hydrocodone and Alprazolam pills with a total value of $50. The complainant reported that during the time of theft she had various workers within her home.

• Drug Possession and Trespassing – On Thursday, May 14, 2015, at 4:33 p.m., Officers Brian Holt and Julie Barcalow responded to the 800 block of Devon Street in Forked River for a report of two subjects trespassing inside a vacant home. Sergeant Paul Sullivan responded to assist. Upon arrival, two juvenile males from Forked River were located inside the structure. An investigation revealed that once inside the structure, the juveniles punched holes in the walls and wrote graffiti on the walls. Both juveniles were taken into custody and one of the juveniles was found to be in possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia and was charged on a juvenile complaint. The investigation is ongoing and additional charges are forthcoming.

• Burglary, Theft, and Criminal Mischief (Business) – On Wednesday, May 13, 2015, at 6:12 a.m., Officers Michael Eden, Daniel Ricciardella, Darrell Nick, and Keith Pearce responded to the Kohl’s department store located at 304 Route 9 North in Forked River for a burglary. Investigation at the scene revealed that at approximately 4:00 a.m., an unknown subject forced entry into the building. Once inside, the unknown subject damaged several jewelry displays and stole several thousand dollars worth of jewelry before leaving the area. Lacey Township Police Detective Brian Flynn, along with the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department CSI Unit responded. The damage to the building and the display counters is estimated at $2,500. Detective Flynn is continuing the investigation.

• Burglary, Theft, and Criminal Mischief (Residence) – On Tuesday, May 12, 2015, at 7:15 p.m., Officer George Resetar responded to the 800 block of Hazelton Avenue in Lanoka Harbor, for a burglary. The victim reported that on Tuesday, May 12, 2015, between 5:00 a.m., and 7:15 p.m., an unknown person or persons forced entry into the residence by breaking a window and stole a sum of cash from the master bedroom. The cost to repair the window is estimated at $100. Detective Alan Abrecht responded and is continuing the investigation.

• Criminal Mischief (Auto) – On Tuesday, May 12, 2015, at 3:48 p.m., Officer Kymberly Gudgeon responded to Lacey Used Auto, located at 602 Route 9 North in Lanoka Harbor, for a criminal mischief report. The complainant reported that between 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 9, 2015, and 3:00 p.m. on May 12, 2015, an unknown person or persons trespassed on the property and smashed out several vehicle windows. Damage is estimated at $2,000.

Weekly Police Blotter

May 5th thru May 11th, 2015

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• Motor Vehicle Accident (Detour) – On Monday, May 11, 2015 at 9:01 a.m., officers responded to a motor vehicle accident on Laurel Boulevard involving a single vehicle which veered off the roadway and struck a utility pole. The impact caused the pole to snap at the base. The pole was located on the eastbound side of Laurel Boulevard across from the intersection of Basin Road. The 23-year-old female driver was the only occupant of the vehicle and was not injured. The utility pole needed emergent repair as low hanging electrified wires caused an unsafe condition. Officers detoured Laurel Boulevard traffic at Birch Road as well as Basin Road with west bound traffic being detoured through a portion of Laurel Harbor Marina to avoid the Basin Road intersection. The cause of the crash is under investigation.  Utility repairs continued throughout the day into the night and the early morning hours. The roadway opened at 3:00 a.m. on Tuesday, May 12, 2015.

• Theft – On Monday, May 11 2015, at 8:08 p.m., Officer Elton Copes responded to the Main Street Laundromat, 302 Route 9 South in Forked River, for a report of a theft. The victim reported that while she was at the Main Street Laundromat, an unknown person stole her wallet. The victim was unsure if the wallet was stolen from inside her car or inside the building. The wallet is valued at $20 and contained $80 in currency, a TD Bank debit card, Credit One credit card, and a Capital One credit card.

• Brush Fire – On Friday, May 08, 2015, at 7:06 p.m., the Lacey Township Police Department responded to the wooded area behind the Georgetown Apartments for a small brush fire. The fire was quickly extinguished by members of the New Jersey State Forrest Fire Service with assistance from the Lanoka Harbor Fire Department. The cause of the small brush fire is unknown. No injuries were reported.

• DUI (Arrest) – On Sunday, May 10, 2015, at 1:44 a.m., Officer Dimitrios Tsarnas responded to Walmart, located at 580 Route 9 North in Lanoka Harbor, for a report of an intoxicated female driver who reportedly drove away from the store. Officer Tsarnas located the vehicle and conducted a motor vehicle stop on Route 9 near First Street in Lanoka Harbor. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 52-year-old Michelle Gogger of Forked River for DUI. Michelle Gogger was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where she was processed and issued summonses for DUI, Reckless Driving, Failure to Maintain Lane, and Suspended Registration. The vehicle was impounded pursuant to John’s Law.

• Graffiti (Township Property) – On Saturday, May 9, 2015, at 4:28 p.m., Officer Elton Copes responded to Huffy Wallis park in reference to a report of graffiti. Two pieces of the playground equipment had been spray painted with black paint. The Lacey Township Department of Public Works (DPW) was notified so the graffiti can be removed.

• DUI (Arrest) – On Friday, May 8, 2015, at 4:20 p.m., Officer John Simonson observed a vehicle stopped in the middle of Cambridge Road in the Lanoka Harbor section of the Township. The driver of the vehicle, 20-year-old Tyler Hayes of Forked River, was observed throwing a piece of the vehicle’s mirror into the front passenger seat of the vehicle. Investigation at the scene determined that Tyler Hayes had been involved in a motor vehicle accident in which he struck a mailbox of a residence located on Cambridge Road. Tyler Hayes was arrested for DUI and transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters. Tyler Hayes was also found to be in possession of four Xanax pills without a valid prescription. Tyler Hayes was processed and charged on a criminal summons with Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance. Tyler Hayes was also issued motor vehicle summonses for DUI, Reckless Driving, Failure to Maintain Lane, Failure to Exhibit Documents, and Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance in a Motor Vehicle. The vehicle was impounded pursuant to John’s Law.

• DUI (Arrest) – On Thursday, May 7, 2015, at 11:32 p.m., Officer Julie Barcalow observed a vehicle failing to maintain a lane as it traveled northbound on Route 9. Officer Barcalow stopped the vehicle in the parking lot of Wawa, located at 710 Route 9 North in Lanoka Harbor. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 30-year-old Michelle Crowther of Forked River for DUI. Michelle Crowther was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters. Michelle Crowther was processed and charged with DUI, Reckless Driving, and Failure to Maintain Lane. The vehicle was impounded pursuant to John’s law.

• Shoplifting & Providing False Information (Arrest) – On Thursday, May 7, 2015, at 12:52 p.m., Officer Brian Holt and Officer Keith Pearce responded to Walmart, located at 580 Route 9 North in Lanoka Harbor, for a female shoplifter in custody. The Loss Prevention employees reported that the female, later identified as 19-year-old Katharine Fagan of Cedar Drive in Lanoka Harbor, had concealed a Monster Energy Drink and the contents of two (2) boxes of “Cough & Cold HBP” pills on her person and then attempted to leave the store without paying for the items. Katharine Fagan initially provided a false name to the responding officers. Katharine Fagan was placed under arrest and transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where she was processed and charged on a criminal complaint with Shoplifting and Providing False Information to a Law Enforcement Officer.

• Eluding, Resisting Arrest, & DUI (Arrests) – On Wednesday, May 6, 2015, at 7:34 p.m., the Lacey Township Police Department received an anonymous complaint about an intoxicated driver traveling east on Beach Boulevard. Officer Julie Barcalow located the vehicle on Clubhouse Drive a short time later and attempted to stop the vehicle. The driver of the vehicle, 23-year-old Thomas Carrano of Enterprise Drive in Forked River, fled in the vehicle at a high rate of speed. When Officer Barcalow found the vehicle in the area on Sarasota Drive, Thomas Carrano exited the vehicle and fled on foot. Officer Barcalow observed that the passenger, 20-year-old Michelle Marold of Bowline Street in Barnegat, moved into the driver seat of the vehicle to operate the vehicle. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of Michelle Marold for DUI. The vehicle was impounded pursuant to John’s Law. Michelle Marold was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where she was processed and issued summonses for DUI, Reckless Driving, and Under Age Consumption of Alcohol. Thomas Carrano was later located by Officer Anthony Sarno and Officer Scott Keefe who observed him walking in the area of Beach Boulevard and Sandy Hook Drive. Thomas Carrano fled from the officers on foot and was arrested in an area of reeds near the Beach Boulevard Bridge. Thomas Carrano was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where he was processed. Thomas Carrano had an outstanding $1,000 Lacey Township Municipal Court criminal warrant and an outstanding $1,500 Ocean Township Municipal Court criminal warrant. Thomas Carrano was charged with Eluding and Resisting Arrest by Flight. Bail was set at $20,000. Thomas Carrano was transported to the Ocean County Correctional Facility in default of the bail.

• Brush Fire – On Wednesday, May 6, 2015, at 6:15 p.m., Officer Brian Holt responded to a wooded area off of Clearview Street in the Forked River section of the township for a brush fire. The Forked River Fire Department and the New Jersey Forest Fire Service responded and extinguished the fire. The area affected was approximately 30 feet in diameter.

• Criminal Mischief (Formal Charge) – On Wednesday, May 06, 2015, at 5:49 p.m., Officer Patrick Watkins responded to Walmart, 580 Route 9 North, Lanoka Harbor, in reference to criminal mischief to a vehicle. The vehicle owner reported that upon returning to her vehicle, which was parked in the Walmart parking lot, she discovered that an unknown person put a 14 inch long scratch in her driver side door. A note was also left under her windshield wiper which criticized the way she had parked. Investigation by Officer Watkins led to the formal charge of 31-year-old Brian Llewellyn of Laurel Boulevard in Lanoka Harbor for Criminal Mischief. The damage was estimated at $500.

• Theft – On Wednesday, May 06, 2015, at 5:29 p.m., Officer Patrick Watkins responded to a Haines Street address for a report of a theft. The resident reported that between Sunday, May 3, 2015, and Wednesday, May 6, 2015, an unknown person or persons stole a tree mounted camera from behind his residence. The camera is described as a Primos Truth camera Model # 63025D and is valued at $110. Two unidentified juveniles were observed in the area at the time the camera was stolen.

• Assault and Drug Possession (Arrest) – On Wednesday, April 29, 2015, at 4:52 p.m., Officer Christopher Meyler responded to the Wawa, located at 701 Route 9 North in Lanoka Harbor, for an assault. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 28-year-old John M. Papiomitis of Belmont Court in South Toms River for assault.  John M. Papiomitis was found to be in possession of Marijuana and Drug Paraphernalia. John Papiomitis was transported to police headquarters, processed, and charged with Assault as well as the Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Possession of CDS in a Motor Vehicle. He was lodged in the Ocean County Correctional Facility in default of $2,500 bail.