The Lacey Township Task Force presents the 2018 Red Night Out event, Knock Out Substance Abuse, this Friday, March 9, 2018. The event will take place at the Lacey Township High School, located at 73 Haines Street in Lanoka Harbor.  Pizza and beverages will be provided from 5:45 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in the cafeteria.  During this time, members of the Lacey Township Police Department will be presenting a display and will be available to answer questions.

The main program begins at 6:30 p.m. and will feature MMA Champion Frankie Edgar, Jiu Jitsu No-Gi World Champion Tom DeBlass, and former NFL Player Keith Elias. Additional presentations will include, but not be limited to, Ocean County Prosecutor Joseph Coronato and John Brogan from Lifeline Recovery Support Services.

Those interested in partaking in the pizza and beverages, or utilizing the babysitting services must register by calling 609-693-1100, ext. 2203.

Thank you.

-Chief Michael C. DiBella

*** Weather Alert – Winter Weather and Coastal Flood Advisories ***

The National Weather Service has issued the below Winter Weather and Coastal Flood Advisories for our area (Ocean County) beginning this evening, March 6^th, 2018, and remaining in effect until 3:00 p.m. EST tomorrow (Wednesday), March 7^th, 2018.

LOCATIONS…Coastal areas of Middlesex County, Monmouth County  and Ocean County.

* COASTAL FLOODING…Minor flooding is anticipated around the time of the midday high tide on Wednesday.

* TIMING….High tide on the oceanfront occurs between 11:00 PM and 12:00 AM tonight. High tide on the oceanfront occurs between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM Wednesday. The Wednesday midday

high tide is expected to have the highest of the two tides. High tide on the back bays and on Raritan Bay occurs later than the high tide on the oceanfront.

* SURGE…Around 2.5 feet above the astronomical tide.

* WAVES…From 6 to 12 feet on the ocean.

* IMPACTS….Roadways flooding is expected. Some roads may be closed due to high water. A long period easterly swell will continue to cause additional beach erosion.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS

A Coastal Flood Advisory means that minor tidal flooding is expected. Minor Tidal flooding often results in some road closures. Usually…the most vulnerable roadways will flood.

Do not leave your vehicle at a location that is prone to tidal flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flood waters. The water may be deeper than you think it is. You will be putting yourself in danger and your vehicle may be damaged…leading to costly repairs.

Lacey Township residents living in the low-lying affected areas may voluntarily park their vehicles in Gille Park, located at 102 Manchester Avenue in Forked River. All affected residents that wish to park their vehicles in Gille Park should park in the middle parking lot, adjacent to the playground and basketball court. Please ensure that your vehicle is locked. Thank you.

– Chief Michael C. DiBella

The Lacey Township Task Force presents the 2018 Red Night Out event, Knock Out Substance Abuse, this Friday, March 9, 2018. The event will take place at the Lacey Township High School, located at 73 Haines Street in Lanoka Harbor.  Pizza and beverages will be provided from 5:45 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in the cafeteria.  During this time, members of the Lacey Township Police Department will be presenting a display and will be available to answer questions.

The main program begins at 6:30 p.m. and will feature MMA Champion Frankie Edgar, Jiu Jitsu No-Gi World Champion Tom DeBlass, and former NFL Player Keith Elias. Additional presentations will include, but not be limited to, Ocean County Prosecutor Joseph Coronato and John Brogan from Lifeline Recovery Support Services.

Those interested in partaking in the pizza and beverages, or utilizing the babysitting services must register by calling 609-693-1100, ext. 2203.

Thank you.

-Chief Michael C. DiBella

The Lacey Township Task Force presents the 2018 Red Night Out event, Knock Out Substance Abuse, tomorrow night, March 9, 2018. The event will take place at the Lacey Township High School, located at 73 Haines Street in Lanoka Harbor.  Pizza and beverages will be provided from 5:45 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in the cafeteria.  During this time, members of the Lacey Township Police Department will be presenting a display and will be available to answer questions.

The main program begins at 6:30 p.m. and will feature MMA Champion Frankie Edgar, Jiu Jitsu No-Gi World Champion Tom DeBlass, and former NFL Player Keith Elias. Additional presentations will include, but not be limited to, Ocean County Prosecutor Joseph Coronato and John Brogan from Lifeline Recovery Support Services.

Those interested in partaking in the pizza and beverages, or utilizing the babysitting services must register by calling 609-693-1100, ext. 2203.

Thank you.

-Chief Michael C. DiBella

• Warrant Arrest- On Tuesday, March 03, 2018, at 8:22 PM, Officer Michael Baldasari conducted a motor vehicle stop on Route 9 and Murray Grove Lane, Lanoka Harbor, for a traffic offense. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the driver, 45 year old Mark Rocchetti, of Mill Creek Rd, Bayville, NJ, who was found to have an active traffic warrant out of New Gretna in the amount of $1,000.00. Mark Rocchetti was issued summonses for maintenance of lamps and driving on the revoked list. Mark Rocchetti was arrested and transported to police headquarters where he was released on his own recognizance pending a future court date.
• Warrant Arrest- On Sunday, March 04, 2018, Officers Scott Keefe and Julie Barcalow responded to the area Newark Ave, Forked River near the Heritage Apartments for a report of a suspicious vehicle with two occupants. Officer Keefe located the vehicle and found the two occupants sleeping inside. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 33 year old Donald Daugherty, of Coolidge Ave, Toms River, NJ, who was found to have an active traffic warrant out of Beachwood in the amount of $500.00. Donald Daugherty was arrested and transported to the Ocean County Jail in default of bail.
• Terroristic Threats- On Sunday, March 04, 2018, at 10:07 a.m., Officers Michael Hutman, Michael Verwey and John Mckee responded to Advanced Auto, 218 Route 9, Forked River, for a report of a customer dispute. It was determined that an employee of the store, 45 year old Luis Loli, of Beverly Rd., Forked River, NJ, had made threatening gestures and verbal threats to a customer. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of Louis Loli. He was transported to police headquarters, processed, and later released after being charged on a criminal summons with terroristic threats.  
• Residential Burglary- On March 04, 2018, Officer Michael Baldasari responded to a residence on Chestnut Drive, Lanoka Harbor, for report of a burglary. The homeowner reported that between the hours of 1130 and 2230 hours on March 04^th, someone entered his residence through a locked back door and stole items. Various items and cash were reported stolen from within the home. The combined estimated value of all of the items stolen is over $10,000.00. The Lacey Township Detective Bureau is investigating along with the Ocean County Criminal Investigations Unit. 
• Drug Arrest/Warrant Arrest- On March 04, 2018 at 1737 hours Officer Daniel Ricciardella responded to the parking lot of the PNC Bank on Lacey Road, Forked River, for a report of a suspicious vehicle with a subject sleeping inside. Upon arrival he located 23 year old Jadie Dodds, of Grace Drive, of Manahawkin, NJ, who was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia. Jadie Dodds was also found to be in possession of marijuana and one Percocet. Additionally, Jadie Dodds was found to have an active warrant out of Stafford Township in the bail amount of $750.00. Jadie Dodds was transported to police headquarters where she was charged with Possession of Marijuana under 50 grams, Possession of CDS, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. She was also issued traffic summonses for driving on the revoked list and CDS in a motor vehicle. Jadie Dodds was unable to post bail and transported to Ocean County Jail. 
• Criminal Mischief to an Auto- On Sunday, March 04, 2018, at 11:40 p.m., Officer Meyler responded to an address on Briar Rd, Lanoka Harbor, for a report of criminal mischief. The vehicle owner reported that while inside her residence she heard three loud “pops”. Upon checking her vehicle she discovered a puncture hole on the windshield and damage to the quarter panel. The damage is believed to be caused by a pellet/BB gun. The damage is estimated at $500.00.
• DWI/Drug Arrest- On Monday, March 05, 2018, at 02:14 a.m., Officer Scott Keefe conducted a motor vehicle at Route 9 near Clearwater Drive, Forked River, for a traffic violation. The investigation led to the arrest of the driver, 32 year old Carlos Quesada-Barrantes, of Clubhouse Drive, Forked River, NJ, for DWI. Carlos Quesada-Barrantes was also found to be in possession of a small amount of marijuana and drug paraphernalia. He was arrested and transported to police headquarters. Carlos Quesada-Barrantes was processed and released after being charged on a criminal summons with Possession of marijuana under 50 grams and Possession of drug paraphernalia. He was also issued traffic summonses for DWI, Reckless Driving, Improper Passing, Failure to maintain lane, and CDS in a motor vehicle. Carlos Quesada-Barrantes was released to a family member pursuant to John’s Law.
• Vehicle Fire- On March 05, 2018 at 7:28 AM, Officers Darrell Nick and John Simonson, responded to Lacey Road near Holmes Avenue, Forked River, for a vehicle fire. Upon arrival they observed a white BMW with visible flames coming from underneath it. Station #60 was dispatched and extinguished the fire. No one was injured as a result of the fire.
• Theft of Gas- On March 05, 2018, at 8:03 p.m., Officer Christopher Meyler, responded to the parking lot of Walmart, 580 Route 9, for a report of an erratic driver. Upon arrival he located the suspected vehicle which was driven by 23 year old Abdelkari Kandil, of Boox St, Forked River, NJ.  It was discovered that Abdelkari Kandil, earlier in the day at 4:21 p.m., he received $20.00 of gas from the Wawa located on Route 9, Forked River left without paying. Abdelkari Kandil was arrested for the theft and transported to police headquarters, where he was processed and released after being charged on a criminal summons with theft of services.
• Criminal Mischief to a residence- On Tuesday, March 06, 2018, Officer Adam Ewart, responded to an address on Davis Ave, Forked River, for a report of criminal mischief. It was reported by the homeowner that someone had broken the window located to her basement sometime between March 5, 2018 and March 6, 2018. The damage was estimated at $100.00.
• Theft of a package- On Thursday, March 08, 2018, at 8:57 a.m., Officer Dimitri Tsarnas, responded to the Lacey Marine, 308 Route 9, Forked River, for a report of theft. Upon arrival he met with victim, who stated that on Friday, March 02^, 2018, he had a package returned to him and according to the post office it was accidentally placed in front of the door of a business located above Lacey Marine. The victim reported that upon checking for the package he discovered that it had been stolen. The package contained a Rescue Link PBL valued at $325.00. The incident remains under investigation.

*** Winter Weather Advisory Remains in Effect this Evening through 10 AM Tomorrow Morning ***

Morris-Hunterdon-Somerset-Middlesex-Western Monmouth-Eastern Monmouth-Mercer-Ocean-Coastal Ocean-Including the cities of Morristown, Flemington, Somerville,
New Brunswick, Freehold, Sandy Hook, Trenton, Jackson, and Long Beach Island.

…WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM THIS EVENING TO 10 AM EDT TUESDAY

* WHAT…Snow expected. Total snow accumulations of 2 to 3 inches are possible.

* WHERE…Portions of northern, central into southern New Jersey.

* WHEN…Light rain and snow developing toward later this evening is expected to change to all snow during tonight, then end early Tuesday morning.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS…Plan on slippery road conditions, including during the start of the Tuesday morning commute. Be prepared for reduced visibilities at times.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

A Winter Weather Advisory for snow means periods of snow will cause primarily travel difficulties. Be prepared for snow-covered roads and limited visibilities, and use caution while driving.
The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1.

-Chief Michael C. DiBella

• CDS Arrest – On Monday, March 12, 2018, at 10:01 p.m., Officer Christopher Meyler was traveling north on Route 9 when he observed the vehicle in front of him travel over the fog line of the roadway three different times. Officer Meyler conducted a motor vehicle stop of the vehicle on Route 9 North near Haines Street in Lanoka Harbor. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 19-year-old John K. Kalamaras, of Clubhouse Drive, Forked River, NJ, and 19-year-old Riley R. Allan, of Pershing Avenue, Forked River, NJ. John Kalamaras and Riley Allan were transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters for processing. Riley Allan was charged with Possession of 50 grams or Less of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. John Kalamaras was charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Riley Allan was also issued a traffic summons for Possession of CDS in a Motor Vehicle.
• Criminal Mischief – On Monday, March 12, 2018, at 6:32 p.m. Officer Julie Barcalow responded to the 1200 Block of Cypress Street in Forked River for a report of criminal mischief to a residence. Officer Barcalow observed damage to French doors inside of the residence. The value of the damage is estimated at $2000.
• Warrant Arrest – On Monday, March 12, 2018, at 12:39 a.m., Officer Anthony Sarno arrested Douglas J. McKee, Jr. of Tampa Road, Forked River, NJ, on an outstanding Passaic County Sheriff’s Department No Bail warrant. During the arrest Douglas McKee, Jr. became uncooperative and physically resisted the officers. He was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where he was processed and charged with Resisting Arrest. The Passaic County Sheriff’s Department responded and took custody of Douglas McKee, Jr.
• DUI Arrest – On Sunday, March 11, 2018, at 9:08 p.m., Officer Anthony Sarno responded to the area of Route 9 south near Lacey Road for a report of an aggressive driver in a green Chevrolet Pickup truck traveling south on Route 9. Officer Sarno conducted a motor vehicle stop of the truck on Sylvania Place in Forked River. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the driver, 19-year-old Savannah L. Banks, of Jay Street, Forked River, NJ, for DUI. Savannah Banks was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where she was processed and charged with DUI, Reckless Driving, Maintenance of Lamps, Suspended Registration, and Tailgating. Savannah Banks was also charged with Underage Possession of Alcohol. The vehicle she was operating was impounded pursuant to John’s Law.
• Warrant Arrest – On Sunday, March 11, 2018, at 5:32 p.m., Officer Dan Ricciardella was on patrol in the area of Haines Street in Lanoka Harbor, when he observed the driver of a green Nissan Altima not wearing a seatbelt. Officer Ricciardella conducted a motor vehicle stop. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the driver, 23-year-old Jessica L. O’Donnell, of Clairmore Avenue, Lanoka Harbor, NJ, on outstanding arrest warrants. The first warrant was a Camden County Superior Court Child Support Warrant in the bail amount of $5,352. The other three warrants were West Deptford Municipal Court warrants in the bail amounts of $40 for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia charge, $75 for Possession of a Hypodermic Syringe charge, and $300 for a traffic offense charge. Jessica O’Donnell was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters for processing but was unable to post bail. Jessica O’ Donnell was transported to the Ocean County Correctional Facility in lieu of bail.
• Warrant Arrest – On Sunday, March 11, 2018, at 4:42 p.m., Officer Michael Hein responded to Lacey Township Police Headquarters in reference to a subject requesting to post bail on an outstanding warrant. Officer Michael Hein arrested 37-year-old James J. Urcinole, II, of Manhattan Avenue, Bayville, NJ, on an outstanding Lacey Township Municipal Court warrant in the bail amount of $239. James Urcinole posted bail and was released.
• Shoplifting Arrest – On Sunday, March 11, 2018, at 1:22 p.m., Officer John Simonson responded to Walmart, 580 Route 9 North, Lanoka Harbor for a shoplifter in custody. The loss prevention employee reported that a female subject placed numerous cosmetic items in her purse and attempted to leave the store without paying for the concealed merchandise. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 18-year-old Holly R. Sikorski, of Shenandoah Boulevard, Toms River, NJ, for stealing cosmetic products valued at $77. Holly Sikorski was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where she was processed and charged with Shoplifting.
• Shoplifting – On Sunday, March 11, 2018, at 1:06 p.m., Officer Dan Ricciardella responded to Lacey Police Headquarters in reference to a report of shoplifting. The owner of Powered by Games, 629 Route 9 North, Lanoka Harbor, NJ, reported that a male subject can be seen on video surveillance entering his store and removing a Star Wars video from a shelf and concealing it in his sweatshirt. The suspect left the store without paying for the merchandise. The incident is under investigation.
• CDS Arrest – On Saturday, March 10, 2018, at 9:33 p.m., Officer Christopher Meyler and Officer Julie Barcalow responded to the 1000 block of Clairmore Avenue in Lanoka Harbor for a loud disturbance inside a parked vehicle. A vehicle matching the description was located near the intersection of Leslie Street and Clairmore Avenue in Lanoka Harbor. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the driver of the vehicle, 18-year-old Jacob F. McGlinchy, of Hughes Drive, Hamilton, NJ, for possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. Jacob McGlinchy was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where he was processed and charged with Possession of 50 grams or Less of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.  Jacob McGlinchy was also issued a traffic summons for Possession of CDS in a Motor Vehicle. A 17-year-old male juvenile passenger was also transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters and charged on a juvenile complaint with Possession of 50 grams or Less of Marijuana. The juvenile was then turned over to the custody of his mother.
• CDS Arrest – On Saturday, March 10, 2018, at 9:00 p.m., Officer Anthony Sarno was on patrol and conducted a motor vehicle stop of a vehicle on Lacey Road near Trenton Avenue in Forked River for maintenance of lamps. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the driver, 18-year-old Jared A. Giaimo, of College Avenue, Buckhannon, WV, and the passenger, 20-year-old Kyle P. Feery, of Woodland Road, Bayville, NJ for possession of marijuana. Jared Giaimo and Kyle Feery were transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where they were processed and charged. Jared Giaimo was charged with Possession of 50 grams or Less Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Jared Giaimo was also issued traffic summonses for Maintenance of Lamps, Tinted Windows, and Possession of CDS in a Motor Vehicle. Kyle Feery was charged with Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Kyle Feery was transported to the Ocean County Correctional Facility.
• Criminal Mischief – On Saturday, March 10, 2018, at 3:56 p.m., Officer Michael Hutman responded to the 500 Block of Lanlac Drive in Lanoka Harbor for a report of criminal mischief. The victim reported that between the hours of 3:30 p.m. on March 9, 2018 and 3:55 p.m. on March 10, 2018, someone damaged his mailbox. The total amount of damage is estimated at $50.

Controlled Burning – The Ocean County Sheriff’s Office has notified the Lacey Township Police Department that there will be controlled burning this afternoon and into this evening (Friday, March 16, 2018) in the area of Double Trouble State Park, located at 581 Pinewald Keswick Road in Bayville, NJ.  Residents in Lacey Township may smell smoke throughout the evening.  Thank you.

-Chief Michael C. DiBella

In 2013, the Lacey Township Police Department announced the installation of the “Project Medicine Drop” box in the lobby of police headquarters. To date, we have collected over 4,166 pounds of medication to be destroyed (932 pounds in 2017). This news release serves as a reminder to our residents that they have a method to properly dispose of unwanted medication in a safe and legal manner. Lacey Township residents may bring their unwanted medication to the lobby of police headquarters and simply drop the medication into the clearly marked drop box without any other steps necessary. No syringes or liquids may be dropped, as they are NOT permitted at this time. The drop box is for medication only.

Although residents may be most comfortable emptying their pills (while in the lobby) into a single, unmarked plastic bag before dropping them into the receptacle, the program allows for the resident to drop the pills in their original container and/or box.  Additionally, this program is anonymous and no record will be made of individual identities related to the discarded medication. Residents simply need to enter police headquarters, drop the medications in the drop box, and leave without checking in with anyone.

The drop box is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The drop box has a very limited capacity.  Residents who have large amounts of medication to discard are asked to contact Detective Lieutenant Christopher Cornelius at 609-693-6636, during regular business hours, Monday thru Thursday, and make arrangements for a coordinated drop off. Thank you.

-Chief Michael C. DiBella

*** The National Weather Service Has Issued the Below Winter Storm and Coastal Flood Warnings ***

The National Weather Service has issued winter storm and coastal flood warnings for our area, beginning this evening, March 20, 2018 thru Wednesday evening, March 21, 2018.  There will be rain, snow, and sleet this evening with wind gusts as high as 39 mph. Snow is expected to begin Wednesday morning and could be heavy at times with accumulations of 3 to 7 inches throughout the day with wind gusts as high as 45 mph. Additional snow accumulations of 3 to 5 inches are possible Wednesday evening with wind gusts as high as 36 mph. Snow is expected to stop late in the evening.

All residents living in the low lying affected areas of Lacey Township may voluntarily park their vehicles in Gille Park, located at 102 Manchester Ave in Forked River. All affected residents that wish to park their vehicles in Gille Park should park in the parking lot on the northernmost side, adjacent to the playground area.

Just a reminder, please remove all parked vehicles from the roadway as required by Lacey Township Ordinance. Vehicles left in the roadway may be ticketed and towed.  Keeping the roadways clear during and after a snow-fall is necessary so the Lacey Township Department of Public Works can effectively clear the streets.  Additionally, please ensure all portable basketball hoops, garbage cans, etc, are removed from the roadway.  Thank you for your assistance and have a good evening.

-Chief Michael C. DiBella

Just a reminder, please remove all parked vehicles from the roadway as required by Lacey Township Ordinance. Vehicles left in the roadway may be ticketed and towed.  Keeping the roadways clear during and after a snow-fall is necessary so the Lacey Township Department of Public Works can effectively clear the streets.  Additionally, please ensure all portable basketball hoops, garbage cans, etc, are removed from the roadway.  Thank you for your assistance and have a good evening.

-Chief Michael C. DiBella

Please be advised that there will be NO trash or recycling pick up for tomorrow, Thursday, March 22nd, 2018. Pick ups will resume on the next regularly scheduled day.

Thank you and have a good evening.

• Storm Response-The Lacey Township Police Department responded to approximately 135 calls for service throughout Forked River, Lanoka Harbor, and Bamber Lakes for downed wires and fallen trees as a result of the snow storm from Wednesday night, March 21,2018 into Thursday afternoon, March 22, 2018.
• Motor Vehicle Accident – On Thursday, March 22, at 11:58 a.m., Officers Scott Anderson and Adam Ewart were dispatched to the 7-Eleven on Route 9 North in Lanoka Harbor for a motor vehicle accident. An elderly male driver accelerated instead of braking and crashed into the entrance of the 7-Eleven storefront. There were no injuries to report. The incident remains under investigation.
• Down Utility Pole– On Tuesday, March 20, 2018, at 12:50 p.m., Officer John McKee was dispatched to the area near Amherst Road and Colgate Avenue in Lanoka Harbor for a report of a utility pole down with wires exposed. The incident was a result of inclement weather. JCP&L was notified and responded to the scene.
• Warrant Arrest – On Sunday, March 18, 2018, at 8:14 p.m., Sergeant Robert Surtees conducted a motor vehicle stop for tinted windows. Officer Julie Barcalow arrived on scene to assist. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the driver, 39-year-old Quincy Saldona of Harrison Road in Toms River, for three outstanding traffic warrants. Two warrants were out of Toms River Municipal Court in the amount of $350 each; the third warrant was out of Brick Township Municipal Court in the amount of $750. Quincy Saldona was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters. He was issued motor vehicle summonses for Tinted Windows and Driving While Suspended. Quincy Saldona was unable to post bail and was transported to the Ocean County Correctional Facility without incident.
• Warrant Arrest – On Sunday, March 18, 2018, at 11:07 a.m., Officer Michael Hutman responded to Lacey Township Police Headquarters to speak with a subject wishing to speak with a police officer regarding a Warrant Notification he received.  It was determined that the subject, 31-old Salvatore Arrigo of Kingston Place, Lanoka Harbor, had an outstanding traffic warrant out of Woodbridge Township Municipal Court for $81. Salvatore was processed and released without incident after satisfying his bail.
• DWI Arrest – On Saturday, March 17, 2018, at 10:27 p.m., Special Officer Michael Moeller and Officer Scott Keefe conducted a traffic stop at the intersection of Arlington Avenue and Alpine Street in Forked River. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of a juvenile, a 17-year-old male from Forked River for Underage DUI. The juvenile was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters and processed. The driver was later released from police headquarters to a family member after receiving traffic summonses for Passenger Restriction, Failure to Observe Signal, Driving While Intoxicated, Reckless Driving, and Possession of an Open Container of Alcohol in a Motor Vehicle.
• Warrant Arrest – On Friday, March 16, 2018, at 4:32 p.m., Officer Brian Holt responded to police headquarters for a subject turning himself in on an outstanding warrant. The subject, 25-year-old Sean M. Cox of Bullard Avenue, Forked River, had an outstanding traffic warrant out of Brielle Boro Municipal Court in the amount of $81. Sean Cox was processed and released without incident after satisfying his bail.
• Fraud-On Wednesday March 21, 2018, officer Dan Ricciardella responded to a residents home on Ensign Drive, Forked River, for a report of a fraud. The victim stated that his bank account had been hacked, and someone transferred approximately $2500.00 from the account. The incident remains under investigation.

*** Young People in Recovery (YPR) of Ocean County to hold Open Interest Meeting, Thursday, April 5th, 2018 ***

Young People in Recovery (YPR) of Ocean County will be holding an open interest meeting in Lacey Township on Thursday evening,  April 5th, 2018.  The meeting will be held in the Lacey Township Recreation building and will start at 8:00 p.m.

YPR of Ocean County NJ is looking to build their team of Chapter members to organize workshops, recovery events and to speak at Recovery Based Forums. Young or old you can help. In Recovery or not you can help. The Recovery community consists of those in recovery, family and supporters.  If anyone is interested or has any questions please email: oceancountynj@youngpeopleinrecovery.org.

Distracted Driving Enforcement and Education Campaign, UDrive UText UPay.

(Lacey Township) — Law enforcement officers from the Lacey Township Police Department will be cracking down on distracted drivers during April as part of New Jersey’s UDrive UText UPay enforcement campaign. Beginning April 1^st, 2018 and continuing through April 21st, 2018, the high visibility law enforcement initiative will target motorists who engage in dangerous distracted driving behaviors such as talking on hand-held cell phones and sending text messages while driving.

“Distracted driving is possibly the most serious issue on our roadways today,” said Gary Poedubicky, Acting Director of the New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that in 2015 alone, 3,477 people were killed in distracted driving crashes and an estimated 391,000 people were injured in motor vehicle crashes involving a distracted driver.”

In New Jersey, driver inattention was listed as a contributing circumstance in 52 percent of the state’s crashes in 2015. Driver inattention was in fact listed as a contributing factor in crashes at a rate nine times higher than that of the next highest contributing factor (speed).

The campaign is being carried out during the month of April, which the National Safety Council has designated as Distracted Driving Awareness Month. The New Jersey campaign is modeled after similar successful high visibility enforcement programs such as Click It or Ticket and Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over. Thank you.

-Chief Michael C. DiBella

*** Gille Park Skate Park Evening Events Making a Return April 6, 2018 ***

In the fall of 2016, the Lacey Township Police Department partnered with the Lacey Township Recreation Department, the Lacey Municipal Alliance, and the Lacey Municipal Police Foundation, to open the Gille Park Skate Park, for Lacey Township residents, every other Friday evening in both the Spring and Fall. The events started in August 2016, and continued through last year.

I am very happy to announce that the Gille Park Skate Park Evening Events, also known as “Friday Night Lights” are making a return, beginning Friday, April 6th, 2018, at 6:00 p.m.  The skate park will be open from 6:00 p.m. until 10:00 pm, with a live DJ playing music beginning at 7:00 p.m. Lighting will be provided by the Lacey Township Police Department with assistance from our local Fire Departments. In addition, the Lacey Township Police Department,  the Lacey Township EMS and Lanoka Harbor EMS will be on scene.

The April 6th event will also include a mobile gaming trailer provided by “Party Crashers” from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.  Age appropriate games will be available for the kids. The “Party Crashers” mobile gaming trailer has participated in prior Gille Park Skate Park Evening Events, prior Lacey Day Events, as well as numerous other events throughout Ocean County. The mobile gaming trailer is being sponsored by the Lacey Municipal Police Foundation and the Lacey Municipal Alliance.

The skate park is specifically for the use of skateboards, scooters, and in-line skates.  Bicycles are not permitted. All users are required to wear a helmet in the skate park at all times, and follow all of the posted skate park rules. Bottled water will be permitted in the park.

Additional 2018 skate park evening events will be held on (Friday) April 20th, May 4th, May 18th, June 1st, September 7th, September 21st, October 5th, October 19th, and November 2nd, 2018.  Additional dates may be announced.

If anyone has any questions in regard to these skate park events, or becoming involved with these events, please contact the Lacey Township Recreation Department at 609-693-1100 ext. 2203.

I look forward to seeing everyone at these events.

Thank you,

– Chief Michael C. DiBella

• Theft – On Wednesday, March 28, 2018, at 11:01 a.m., Officer Dan Ricciardella responded to Burger King, 346 Route 9 North, Lanoka Harbor, for a report of theft of currency. The manager reported approximately $400 in cash was taken from the restaurant’s safe. This incident remains under investigation.
• Illegal Dumping – On Tuesday, March 27, 2018, at 1:25p.m., Officer John McKee responded to the area known as the Trestle, off of Cedar Avenue, in Lanoka Harbor for a report of illegal dumping. Approximately 11 bags of garbage and a refrigerator were found in the area. The Lacey Township Department of Public Works was notified and responded to the site.
• Warrant Arrest – On Monday, March 26, 2018, at 3:27 p.m., Officers Michael Hutman and Michael Verwey were on patrol when they stopped a vehicle for speeding on Spruce Street in Forked River. The driver of the vehicle, 44-year-old Matthew C. Foulks of Spruce Street in Forked River was found to have two outstanding warrants, one out of Mount Laurel Municipal Court in the amount of $300 and a no bail warrant out of Pemperton Township Municipal Court. Matthew Foulks was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where he was processed and issued traffic summonses for Speeding and Unregistered Motor Vehicle. Matthew Foulks was turned over to the custody of the Pemberton Township Police.
• Fraud – On Monday, March 26, 2018, at 2:49 p.m., Officer John McKee responded to Montauk Drive in Forked River to take a report of fraud. An elderly male reported that he was experiencing problems with his computer and an unknown company gained access into his brokerage account, as well as his son’s brokerage account and had transferred money from his son’s account into his account. The unknown company asked the elderly male to respond to Walmart and purchase ten $500 gift cards and send the cards to them. After calling the unknown company, they refused to provide any information including the name of their company. The victim contacted his financial institution and a representative informed them that they are going to investigate the suspicious activity.
• Drug Arrest – On Sunday, March 25, 2018, at 9:01 p.m., Officers Jason Lee and Jesse Dalziel responded to the 800 block of Windward Drive in Forked River to serve traffic summonses on a resident. While speaking with the homeowner, 54-year-old Theresa Viglione of Windward Drive, Forked River, officers observed a plate with white powder and a cut straw on a table nearby. Theresa Viglione was placed under arrest for Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance. Theresa Viglione was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where she was processed and charged with Possession of CDS and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
• Warrant Arrest – On Sunday, March 25, 2018, at 6:00 p.m., 49-year-old Roger E. Bacon of Chelsea Street, Forked River, NJ responded to Lacey Township Police Headquarters to turn himself in on an outstanding no bail Lacey Township Municipal Court Warrant. Roger Bacon was placed under arrest, processed, and then transported to the Ocean County Correctional Facility without incident. Officer Alan Abrecht was the arresting officer.
• Warrant Arrest – 0n Saturday, March 24, 2018, at 1:43 p.m., Officer Dimitrios Tsarnas was on patrol when he conducted a motor vehicle stop of a vehicle on Biscayne Drive near Seabright Road in Forked River. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the driver, 31-year-old Erin A. Albertson of Biscayne Drive, Forked River, NJ, on an outstanding Berkeley Township Municipal Court warrant in the bail amount of $350. Erin Albertson was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where she was processed and released after posting bail.
• Warrant Arrest – On Friday, March 23, 2018 at 9:41 p.m., Officers Jesse Dalziel and Jason Lee responded to the 800 block of Sandpiper Drive in Lanoka Harbor to serve an arrest warrant. The subject of the warrant, 37-year-old Trevor M. Conroy, Sandpiper Drive, Lanoka Harbor, NJ was located and placed under arrest on a no bail Lacey Township Municipal Court warrant. Trevor Conroy was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where he was processed and then transported to the Ocean County Correctional Facility.
• Assist Other Agency – On Friday, March 23, 2018, at 6:50 p.m., Officer Patrick Watkins responded to the 1200 block of Varuna Drive, Lanoka Harbor, for a report of a docked sailboat that was almost completely submerged under water. The Lanoka Harbor Fire Department and a representative from the Berkeley Township Hazmat Team responded to the scene. The Hazmat Team representative determined that the scene was safe and deemed a clean sinking. The investigation was turned over to the US Coast Guard and the NJ State Police. The owner of the boat was notified.

The Lacey Township Police Department is excited to announce the kickoff of the 2018 COPs Collectible Card Program. The members of the police department, through the Lacey Municipal Police Foundation, have finished production of the Lacey Township Police Officer Trading Cards. The program involves participating local businesses each sponsoring a card and then having the sponsored trading card available at their businesses for families to stop in and collect them. This program is a very interactive and positive community initiative in which the youth of the township and their families get to know more about the officers and staff within their police department. Likewise, interaction occurs within the community, as families can collect the cards from each of the sponsor businesses and through personal interactions with police officers out on the streets.

The program will run from the beginning of April through June of 2018. Meet the Officer Day is scheduled for Saturday, June 2, 2018, 10:00 a.m. till 2:00 p.m.

At approximately 12:30am, November 26, 2017, the night shift manager of Burger King located in the Lacey Mall contacted police reporting a robbery. The manager explained to the police that he was locking the building for the night when he was approached by a male subject with his face covered.  The unknown male demanded the deposits although the manager denied possessing any cash.  The suspect then brandished what appeared to be a black, semi-automatic handgun and threatened to shoot the victim.  The manager handed over a deposit bag containing $678 prior to the suspect fleeing north on foot toward Musket Road.

As the investigation continued, the suspect was described as a thin white male, possibly of Middle Eastern decent between 20 and 30 years of age. Video surveillance, phone records, and GPS coordinates from cellular towers were used to identify a suspect consistent with the description provided by the manager.

On Wednesday, April 4, 2018, Detective Sam Della Sala arrested David Ghalee, 20, of Marne Highway, Mount Laurel, New Jersey. Ghalee, who once resided in Forked River, was a former employee of Burger King in 2015.

Ghalee was charged with 1^st degree robbery, theft of moveable property, unlawful possession of a handgun, and possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose.  He was served with his complaints at the Burlington County Correctional Facility where he is lodged on numerous counts of commercial burglary that occurred in Maple Shade, Evesham, and Hainesport.

Ghalee is being held in the Burlington County Correctional Facility without bail.  He is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.  Ghalee could be facing 10-20 years of incarceration for the robbery if convicted.

The Lacey Township Skate Park Event is cancelled for Friday, April 6, 2018 due to weather concerns.  The next scheduled event will be held on Friday, April 20, 2018 at 6:00 p.m.

The skate park is specifically for the use of skateboards, scooters, and in-line skates.  Bicycles are not permitted. All users are required to wear a helmet in the skate park at all times, and follow all of the posted skate park rules. Bottled water will be permitted in the park.

Additional 2018 skate park evening events will be held on (Fridays) May 4th, May 18th, June 1st, September 7th, September 21st, October 5th, October 19th, and November 2nd, 2018.  Additional dates may be announced.

If anyone has any questions in regard to these skate park events, or becoming involved with these events, please contact the Lacey Township Recreation Department at 609-693-1100 ext. 2203.