• Warrant Arrest – On Wednesday, May 16, 2018, at 12:04 p.m., Officer John McKee responded to police headquarters to process an outstanding traffic warrant out of Toms River Municipal Court in the amount of $350. The subject, 31-year-old Jesse R. Gibson, of Holmes Avenue North, Forked River, was processed and released by Officer McKee.
• Theft – On Tuesday, May 15, 2018, at 12:05 p.m., Officer Verwey responded to the Captain’s Inn, East Lacey Road, Forked River, for a report of theft. Eight empty beer kegs, valued at $250.00, were stolen from the business over a two day period from May 12, 2018 and May 13, 2018. Video surveillance was obtained from the scene. The incident remains under investigation.
• DUI/Warrant Arrest – On Monday, May 14, 2018, at 11:09 p.m., Officer Martin Julian conducted a motor vehicle stop on Ensign Drive, Forked River. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 30-year-old Frank A. Paradise of Chestnut Lane, Forked River, for DUI. He was transported to police headquarters and processed. Frank A. Paradise was found to have an active warrant out of Roselle Township Municipal Court in the amount of $250. He was released after satisfying his warrant and received motor vehicle summonses for DUI, Reckless Driving, Refusal, Careless Driving, Suspended Driver’s License, and Failure to Maintain Lane. The vehicle he was driving was impounded pursuant to John’s Law.
• CDS Arrest – On Monday, May 14, 2018, at 9:05 p.m., Officer Chris Meyler was checking on a suspicious vehicle in the Hometown Market Parking Lot on Route 9 in Forked River. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 26-year-old Aidan Dolly of North Oak Road, Lanoka Harbor for possession of CDS, drug paraphernalia, and possession of hypodermic syringes. He was transported to police headquarters, processed, and later released after receiving a criminal summons for possession of CDS and possession of drug paraphernalia, and traffic summons for CDS in a motor vehicle.
• Commercial Burglary – On Monday, May 14, 2018, at 12:34 a.m., Officer Anthony Sarno responded to Mrs. Walker’s Ice Cream on Route 9 South in Forked River for a commercial burglar alarm coming from the front door of the building. It was discovered that the front door was pushed in and lying on the floor, an undisclosed amount of cash was taken from the business. Damage to the door and the building is estimated at $250. Detective Keith Pearce will be investigating this incident.
• Warrant Arrest – On Sunday, May 13, 2018, at 10:13 p.m., Officer Scott Keefe conducted a motor vehicle stop on Route 9 near Beach Boulevard in Forked River. Investigation at the scene found the driver, 36-year-old James L. Terry, Jr., of Amherst Road, South Toms River, NJ, to have a suspended driver’s license and an outstanding traffic warrant out of Manchester Township Municipal Court in the amount of $300. James Terry was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters and processed. He received a motor vehicle summons for Suspended Driver License and was released after posting cash bail.
• Aggravated Assault on Police – On Sunday, May 13, 2018, at 5:19 p.m., Officers Michael Verwey and Julie Barcalow responded to the intersection of Route 9/Beach Boulevard for a motor vehicle accident involving two vehicles. At the scene, the parties involved became verbally abusive to one another. This caused Officer Barcalow to intervene to de-escalate the argument. In doing so, Officer Barcalow got between the parties to stop them from arguing and was grabbed by her arm and shoved to the side. Officer Verwey observed the incident and placed 50-year-old Billi J O’Kane of Tampa Road, Forked River under arrest for Aggravated Assault on a Police Officer. She was transported to headquarters for processing and released on a criminal summons.
• Warrant Arrest – On Saturday, May 12, 2018, at 11:36 a.m., Officer Michael Hein responded to headquarters to process an outstanding traffic warrant. The subject, 33-year-old Cassandra J. Falco of Opal Court, Barnegat, NJ, had an outstanding traffic warrant out of Stafford Township Municipal Court in the amount of $539. She was processed and released by Officer Hein.
• Robbery/Carjacking – On Friday, May 11, 2018, at 1:12 a.m., Officer Jesse Dalziel responded to Eric Plaza for a report of a carjacking. The victim advised the officer that he was approached by an unknown male and female near Old York Road/Route 206 in Chesterfield, NJ when the male subject pointed a gun (black revolver) at him and advised him to drive to Lacey Township. The unknown subjects were described as a white female wearing a dark colored hooded sweatshirt covering most of her face and a white male wearing a dark colored hooded sweatshirt covering most of his face. The victim was also robbed of approximately $100.00. The victim last saw the subjects running from the area across Lacey Road towards Briggs Avenue. The Ocean County Sheriff’s Department K9 Unit responded to assist in the investigation.   This incident remains under investigation.
• Brush Fire – On Friday, May 11, 2018, at 4:33 p.m., Officer Dimitrios Tsarnas responded to Good Luck Road, Forked River, for a report of a brush fire. Bamber and Forked River Fire Departments were already on scene. The fire was contained to a wooded area near a residence. The cause of the fire has not been determined. The incident remains under investigation.

Seat Belt Enforcement and Education Campaign Currently Being Conducted in Lacey Township as Part of the Nationwide Click It or Ticket Mobilization (May 21 – June 3, 2018)

Lacey Township Police Officers have joined with law enforcement officers from around the country in cracking down on unbuckled motorists and passengers as part of the national “Click it or Ticket” campaign. Beginning this past Monday, May 21st, 2018 and continuing through June 3rd, 2018, the annual “Click It or Ticket” national mobilization campaign will utilize high visibility seat belt checkpoints and saturation patrols, in combination with local and national publicity efforts, to reiterate the life-saving value of seat belts. Specifically dedicated grant funding allows for these additional enforcement patrols in Lacey Township. Both marked and Stealth-type police vehicles will be utilized to conduct these patrols in Lacey Township.

“Using a seat belt is the simplest way for a driver and his or her passengers to protect themselves when traveling,” said Gary Poedubicky, Acting Director of the New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety.  “In 2016, it is estimated that 14,500 lives were saved nationally by the proper use of seat belts.”

Gary Poedubicky added that a key focus of this year’s campaign is to promote seat belt usage by adults in all seating positions in the vehicle, both front AND rear seats. The front seat belt usage rate in New Jersey currently stands at 94.07%. However, adults riding in rear seats are buckling up at a significantly lower rate, only 48% in the most recent survey. “For whatever reason there seems to be a disconnect with people feeling they don’t need to buckle up when riding as a passenger in rear seats, and this is a concern,” he said.

Please wear your seatbelt regardless of where you are sitting.  It is your best defense against an impaired driver.

Thank you.

-Chief Michael C. DiBella

*** 2018 Lacey Police Department “Meet the Officer Day” Saturday, June 2nd, 2018, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. ***

“Meet the Officer Day” – On Saturday, June 2, 2018, the Lacey Township Police Department, Lacey PBA Local #238 and the Lacey Municipal Police Foundation will be hosting a completely free event for the residents of Lacey Township at the Lacey Middle School from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. This indoor event will include food and refreshments (hot dogs, potato chips, soda and bottled water), music (D.J.), games, and giveaways (t-shirts, water bottles, etc.). Activities include face-painting, boardwalk-style games, a huge inflatable slide, and more.

Families are encouraged to bring their children to meet the police officers and staff of the Lacey Township Police Department. The “Meet the Officer Day” event is part of our ongoing COPs Collectible Card program which is currently in Week #6. Each officer will have their specific Cop Collectable Card with them.  This event will offer prizes, including, but not limited to bicycles and an iPad.

Participating students will be able to have their collection confirmed and turn in their completed and verified forms. The completed and verified checklist forms will render the student eligible for the grand prize drawings which will be conducted at the prize ceremonies scheduled at each of the participating schools in June (Mill Pond School, Lanoka Harbor School, Cedar Creek School, and the Forked River Elementary School). Blank checklists will be available at the event. The police department’s facilitation of this event is being accomplished with the assistance of student volunteers from the Lacey Township High School as well as staff members of the Lacey Township Recreation Department.

If anyone has any questions in regard to this event you may contact Detective Lieutenant Christopher Cornelius at 609-693-6636 ext. 2566. In addition, you may log on to our website at Laceypd.org and look for the 2018 Cop Card Program under “Announcements.”

Thank you.

Chief Michael C. DiBella

Memorial Day Parade – On Monday, May 28th, 2018, at approximately 9:45 a.m. traffic will be blocked on Lacey Road from just west of the Forked River Elementary School (Caldwell Avenue) to three blocks west of the Lacey Township Municipal Building (Newark Avenue). Additionally, at the conclusion of the parade, Lacey Road will be blocked between Manchester Avenue and Newark Avenue until approximately 12:00 p.m for a Memorial.

The Memorial Day Parade is scheduled to begin at 10:00 a.m. and conclude with a Memorial Service at Bicentennial Park, located along Lacey Road in front of the Lacey Township Police Department. For those of you who are not attending the parade, however, will be driving in the area of Lacey Road during this time-frame, should select an alternate route around the area. The side streets to Lacey Road will be barricaded during the parade.

Thank you.

-Chief Michael C. DiBella

• DUI Arrest – On Wednesday, May 23, 2018, at 6:10 p.m., Officer Scott Keefe conducted a traffic stop on Bay Way and Route 9 in Lanoka Harbor. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 39-year-old Jason S. Kent of Bunnell Street in Lanoka for DUI. He was transported to police headquarters and processed. Jason Kent was released after receiving summonses for DUI, Reckless Driving, and Suspended Driver’s License. The vehicle Jason Kent was driving was impounded pursuant to John’s Law.
• Criminal Mischief – On Tuesday, May 22, 2018, at 9:27 p.m., Officer Scott Keefe conducted a park check of Gille Park on Manchester Avenue in Forked River. Officer Keefe discovered the men’s bathroom, nearest the tennis court, had damage to the paper towel dispenser. The damage is estimated at $75. All other bathrooms appeared to be in good condition.
• Possession of CDS – On Monday, May 21, 2018, at 8:31 p.m., Officer Martin Julian conducted a motor vehicle stop in the area of Route 9 and Mill Street. Further investigation led to the arrest of the driver, 19-year-old Dakota Wolf-Diaz of Morris Boulevard in Manahawkin, NJ, for possession of marijuana. She was transported to police headquarters where she was processed and released on a summons charging her with possession of marijuana. Dakota Wolf-Diaz also received a traffic summons for speeding.
• Motor Vehicle Accident/Warrant Arrest – On Monday, May 21, 2018, at 4:18 a.m., Officers Elton Copes responded to a motor vehicle crash involving a car that hit a tree on Dover Road in Forked River. Upon his arrival, no occupants were found at the scene. Further investigation revealed the owner of the vehicle and the driver of the vehicle. The driver, 49-year-old Laurie L. Harrison of Goodluck Road in Forked River, was located and arrested on two outstanding warrants out of Lacey Township Municipal Court in the amount of $750. She also received motor vehicle summonses, as well as a criminal summons for knowingly leaving the scene of a motor vehicle accident with injury. Laurie L. Harrison was later transported to the Ocean County Correctional Facility without incident.
• Theft – On Sunday, May 20, 2018, at 7:09 p.m., Officer Brian Holt responded to the Dunkin Donuts on Route 9 North in Lanoka Harbor for a report of theft. An unknown male handed the cashier a hundred-dollar bill for a small purchase and then changed his mind and presented a $20 bill. The unknown male changed his mind again and said he would pay with the hundred-dollar bill. The cashier gave the unknown male change of the hundred dollars without taking any money. The unknown male left the store on foot.   The total value of the theft is $99.76.
• Motor Vehicle Fire – On Sunday, May 20, 2018, at 4:17 p.m., Officer Michael Hutman responded to Chelsea Street and Weehawkin Avenue in Forked River for a motor vehicle that was on fire. The occupant in the vehicle was able to extinguish the fire upon the officer’s arrival. The vehicle was inoperable and was later towed.
• Criminal Mischief – On Sunday, May 20, 2018, at 2:54 p.m., Officer Michael Hutman responded to the 2000 block of Pineview Road in Forked River for a report of criminal mischief to a vehicle. The owner of the vehicle stated at that both driver’s side tires were slashed between the hours of 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 19, and 2:50 p.m. on Sunday, May 20, 2018. The damage is estimated at $150. Multiple vehicles were vandalized where tires were slashed on Pineview Road and Crestwood Road in Forked River during the overnight hours of Saturday into Sunday, May 19-20, 2018.
• Theft – On Saturday, May 19, 2018, Officer Jason Lee responded to Gary Smith Way for a report of theft of prescription medication. The caller reported that he is a home aid for the victim and when he opened a secure lockbox where medication is stored, he noticed a quantity of pills missing. On-duty caretakers will be questioned by the company in charge of the victim’s care.

On Friday, May 25, 2018, at approximately 11:02 p.m., Lacey Township Police Officers responded to the 1200 block of Spruce Street in Forked River, for a report of a dispute. Upon arrival, officers spoke with the victim, identified as a 47-year-old female from Forked River, who informed officers that during the dispute with the accused he discharged a firearm inside the residence. Officers attempted to contact the accused outside, however, he refused and re-entered the residence. Attempts were made to contact the accused with negative results. It was also determined there were no additional persons inside the residence.  The Ocean County Regional SWAT Team, consisting of law enforcement officers from various agencies throughout Ocean County, was requested and responded to the scene.  The SWAT team secured the area and attempted to make contact with the accused who was still inside the residence. Approximately three hours later, the accused, identified as 44-year-old Matthew C. Foulks, LKA of New Jersey Avenue in Browns Mills, New Jersey, was taken into custody by members of the SWAT Team without incident.

Matthew C. Foulks was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters and processed. He was later charged on a complaint warrant with Terroristic Threats, Criminal Restraint, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, Certain Persons Not to Possess Weapons, Simple Assault and Criminal Mischief. Matthew C. Foulks was lodged in the Ocean County Correctional Facility to await a bail hearing. There were no injuries reported.

-Chief Michael C. DiBella

*** Gille Park Skate Park Evening Event This Friday Evening, June 1st, 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.

The next Gille Park Skate Park Evening Event, also known as “Friday Night Lights” will be held this Friday evening, June 1st, 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 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) September 7th, September 21st, October 5th, October 19th, and November 2nd, 2018.  Additional dates may be announced for June, July, and August 2018.

These events are free of charge. This includes both the Skate Park and the Gaming trailer.

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.

Thank you,

– Chief Michael C. DiBella

*** 2018 Lacey Police Department “Meet the Officer Day” Saturday, June 2nd, 2018, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. ***

“Meet the Officer Day” – This Saturday, June 2, 2018, the Lacey Township Police Department, Lacey PBA Local #238 and the Lacey Municipal Police Foundation will be hosting a completely free event for the residents of Lacey Township at the Lacey Middle School from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. This indoor event will include food and refreshments (hot dogs, potato chips, soda and bottled water), music (D.J.), games, and giveaways (t-shirts, water bottles, etc.). Activities include face-painting, boardwalk-style games, a huge inflatable slide, and more.

Families are encouraged to bring their children to meet the police officers and staff of the Lacey Township Police Department. The “Meet the Officer Day” event is part of our ongoing COPs Collectible Card program which is currently in Week #6. Each officer will have their specific Cop Collectable Card with them.  This event will offer prizes, including, but not limited to bicycles and an iPad.

Participating students will be able to have their collection confirmed and turn in their completed and verified forms. The completed and verified checklist forms will render the student eligible for the grand prize drawings which will be conducted at the prize ceremonies scheduled at each of the participating schools in June (Mill Pond School, Lanoka Harbor School, Cedar Creek School, and the Forked River Elementary School). Blank checklists will be available at the event. The police department’s facilitation of this event is being accomplished with the assistance of student volunteers from the Lacey Township High School as well as staff members of the Lacey Township Recreation Department.

If anyone has any questions in regard to this event you may contact Detective Lieutenant Christopher Cornelius at 609-693-6636 ext. 2566. In addition, you may log on to our website at Laceypd.org and look for the 2018 Cop Card Program under “Announcements.”

Thank you.

Chief Michael C. DiBella

*** 2018 Lacey Police Department “Meet the Officer Day” Saturday, June 2nd, 2018, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. ***

“Meet the Officer Day” – This Saturday, June 2, 2018, the Lacey Township Police Department, Lacey PBA Local #238 and the Lacey Municipal Police Foundation will be hosting a completely free event for the residents of Lacey Township at the Lacey Middle School from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. This indoor event will include food and refreshments (hot dogs, potato chips, soda and bottled water), music (D.J.), games, and giveaways (t-shirts, water bottles, etc.). Activities include face-painting, boardwalk-style games, a huge inflatable slide, and more.

Families are encouraged to bring their children to meet the police officers and staff of the Lacey Township Police Department. The “Meet the Officer Day” event is part of our ongoing COPs Collectible Card program which is currently in Week #9. Each officer will have their specific Cop Collectable Card with them.  This event will offer prizes, including, but not limited to bicycles and an iPad.

Participating students will be able to have their collection confirmed and turn in their completed and verified forms. The completed and verified checklist forms will render the student eligible for the grand prize drawings which will be conducted at the prize ceremonies scheduled at each of the participating schools in June (Mill Pond School, Lanoka Harbor School, Cedar Creek School, and the Forked River Elementary School). Blank checklists will be available at the event. The police department’s facilitation of this event is being accomplished with the assistance of student volunteers from the Lacey Township High School as well as staff members of the Lacey Township Recreation Department.

If anyone has any questions in regard to this event you may contact Detective Lieutenant Christopher Cornelius at 609-693-6636 ext. 2566. In addition, you may log on to our website at Laceypd.org and look for the 2018 Cop Card Program under “Announcements.”

Thank you.

Chief Michael C. DiBella

• Warrant Arrest – On Thursday, May 31, 2018, at 10:56 p.m., Officer Scott Keefe conducted a motor vehicle stop on Beach Boulevard near Biscayne Drive in Forked River. Sergeant Robert Surtees arrived on scene to assist. Investigation at the scene found the driver, 47-year-old Michael Gray of Beach Boulevard in Forked River had a suspended driver’s license and a warrant out of Berkeley Township Municipal Court in the amount of $500. Michael Gray was transported to police headquarters where he was processed. He received a motor vehicle summons for suspended driver’s license. Unable to post bail for the warrant, Michael Gray was transported to the Ocean County Correctional Facility without incident.
• Warrant Arrest – On Thursday, May 31, 2018, at 10:06 a.m., Officer Darrell Nick conducted a motor vehicle stop on Lacey Road in Forked River near the Municipal Building. Investigation at the scene found the driver; 64-year-old Albert Rentas of Ridgemont Drive in Lanoka Harbor had two outstanding warrants. The first, a no bail warrant, out of the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department. The second warrant is out of South Toms River Municipal Court for $500. Albert Rentas was transported to the Ocean County Correctional Department without incident.
• Warrant Arrest – On Thursday, May 31, 2018, at 8:39 a.m., Officer Dan Ricciardella responded to a motor vehicle accident on Hastings Drive near Portsmouth Drive in Forked River. Investigation at the scene found that one of the passengers involved in the accident, 35-year-old Ronald Ollerenshaw of Columbus Avenue in Phillipsburg, NJ, had two active warrants out of Newark Municipal Court in the amount of $1500 (criminal) and $100 (traffic). Ronald Ollerenshaw was transported to police headquarters and processed. He was released on his own recognizance and advised of his new court date.
• CDS Arrest/Warrant Arrest – On Thursday, May 31, 2018 at 12:28 a.m., Officer Anthony Sarno conducted a motor stop on Route 9 in Lanoka Harbor near the Lacey Mall. The driver of the vehicle, 20-year-old Briana Seeds of Red Bank Avenue, Bayville, NJ, was charged with possession of Marijuana, Possession of drug paraphernalia, and underage possession of alcohol. She received motor vehicle summonses for Careless Driving, Open Container, Failure to Exhibit a Driver License, and CDS in a Motor Vehicle. The passenger in her vehicle, 23-year-old Alan Ricci, of Red Bank Avenue, Bayville, NJ, was found to have two outstanding warrants, one for $558 out of Stafford Township Municipal Court and one out of Ocean Gate Municipal Court for $157. Alan Ricci was transported to police headquarters and processed. Stafford Township Police responded and took custody of him.
• CDS/Warrant Arrest – On Tuesday, May 29, 2018, at 9:13 p.m., Officer Anthony Sarno conducted a motor vehicle stop on Moosehead Street and Bullard Avenue in Forked River. A passenger in the vehicle, 53-year-old Douglas Kern of Norwood Street in Forked River was arrested for marijuana found inside the vehicle. Douglas Kern had a warrant exceeding $11000 for unpaid support out of the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department. He was transported to police headquarters, processed, and transported to the Ocean County Jail by the Ocean County Sherriff’s Department. He was charged on a criminal summons with possession of marijuana and possession or drug paraphernalia
• Theft – On Monday, May 28, 2018, at 8:52 a.m. Officer Michael Hutman met with a victim of theft at the Wawa on Lacey Road in Forked River. The victim stated that she met an unknown male in Atlantic City at which point they later drove to the Wawa on Lacey Road in Forked River. While inside the Wawa, the male left in his vehicle with her personal belongings including a cell phone, $100 cash, a wig, and multiple dresses. The estimated value of the theft is over $300. The incident remains under investigation.
• CDS Arrest – On Friday, May 25, 2018, at 2:58 p.m., Lacey Township Police Detectives arrested a Neptune Township resident at the Cedar Creek trestle. The accused, 19-year-old Jason A. Hurt of Bradford Avenue, Neptune, NJ, was found in possession of drug paraphernalia and an item commonly known as a “vape pen” used to inhale THC oil.   The arrest was initiated after detectives witnessed Jason Hurt meeting with juveniles in Gille Park. Jason Hurt then drove to the trestle where detectives approached him after he met with additional juveniles. Jason Hurt was transported to police headquarters, charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and released on his own recognizance.
• Warrant Arrest – On Friday, May 25, 2018, at 10:57 a.m., Officers Andrew Slota and Dimitrios Tsarnas responded to the 1900 block of Deerhead Lake Drive in Forked River to assist the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department to serve an outstanding warrant on 24-year-old Bethany Norris of Martin Road in Toms River, NJ. The warrant was out of the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department in the amount of $12000 for unpaid support. In lieu of bail, Bethany Norris was transported to the Ocean County Correctional Facility.

*** 2018 Lacey Police Department “Meet the Officer Day” Saturday, June 2nd, 2018, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. ***

“Meet the Officer Day” – Tomorrow, June 2, 2018, the Lacey Township Police Department, Lacey PBA Local #238 and the Lacey Municipal Police Foundation will be hosting a completely free event for the residents of Lacey Township at the Lacey Middle School from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. This indoor event will include food and refreshments (hot dogs, potato chips, soda and bottled water), music (D.J.), games, and giveaways (t-shirts, water bottles, etc.). Activities include face-painting, boardwalk-style games, a huge inflatable slide, and more.

Families are encouraged to bring their children to meet the police officers and staff of the Lacey Township Police Department. The “Meet the Officer Day” event is part of our ongoing COPs Collectible Card program which is currently in Week #9. Each officer will have their specific Cop Collectable Card with them.  This event will offer prizes, including, but not limited to bicycles and an iPad.

Participating students will be able to have their collection confirmed and turn in their completed and verified forms. The completed and verified checklist forms will render the student eligible for the grand prize drawings which will be conducted at the prize ceremonies scheduled at each of the participating schools in June (Mill Pond School, Lanoka Harbor School, Cedar Creek School, and the Forked River Elementary School). Blank checklists will be available at the event. The police department’s facilitation of this event is being accomplished with the assistance of student volunteers from the Lacey Township High School as well as staff members of the Lacey Township Recreation Department.

If anyone has any questions in regard to this event you may contact Detective Lieutenant Christopher Cornelius at 609-693-6636 ext. 2566. In addition, you may log on to our website at Laceypd.org and look for the 2018 Cop Card Program under “Announcements.”

Thank you.

Chief Michael C. DiBella

• Fraud – On Thursday, June 7, 2018, at 10:10 a.m., Officer Michael Verwey responded to police headquarters to take a report of possible identity theft. The victim stated that she received an email from LifeLock indicating that her personal information had been compromised. The representative from LifeLock stated that someone used her name, Social Security Number, and date of birth to open a Verizon account in Texas and New Jersey. The accounts were blocked before any monetary loss. LifeLock notified all three credit bureaus to put a 90 day fraud alert on her information. The victim was advised to monitor her credit on all of her accounts.
• Theft – On Wednesday, June 6, 2018, at 5:56 p.m., Officer Julie Barcalow responded to the Wawa on Lacey Road in Forked River for a report of theft of gas. The gas attendant reported that a female in her early twenties driving a blue Kia with a Florida license plate asked for $10 worth of gas and left without paying for it. After the woman’s credit card was declined at the gas pump, she was advised to go inside and try paying with the credit card or another form of payment. The woman left the store without paying for the gas.
• Theft- On Wednesday, June 6, 2018, Officer John McKee took a theft report while at police headquarters. The victim reported that he had shipped three high priced items from the UPS Store, 348 Route 9, Lanoka Harbor, to a residence in Naples, Fl. Two of the three items arrived at the destination; however, the third item, a framed autographed photo of Ebbet’s Field, was missing. The estimated value of the theft is $5000.00. The incident remains under investigation.
• DUI Arrest – On Wednesday, June 6, 2018, at 2:18 p.m., Officer John Simonson conducted a traffic stop on Route 9 South in Forked River near the Lacey Township Municipal Utilities Authority. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 60-year-old Stephen W. Matysek of Union Avenue in Linden, NJ, for DUI. He was transported to police headquarters and processed. Stephen Matysek was released after receiving motor vehicle summonses for DUI, Careless Driving, and Reckless Driving. The vehicle Stephen Matysek was driving was impounded pursuant to John’s Law.
• Fires – On Tuesday, June 5, 2018, at 6:20 p.m., Officer Andrew Slota responded to the Chase Bank on Lacey Road in Forked River for a report of a mulch fire in the landscaping in front of the bank. An employee of the bank extinguished the fire with the bank’s fire extinguisher. A short time later, she observed a different part of the garden start to smoke. The Forked River Fire Department arrived on scene and sprayed the mulch to prevent any other flare-ups. No damage was sustained from the fires.
• Warrant Arrest – On Tuesday, June 5, 2018, at 10:16 p.m., Officer Jesse Dalziel arrested 29-year-old Wesley Krempel, of Lakeside Drive South in Forked River on two outstanding no bail criminal warrants out of Lacey Township Municipal Court. The arrest took place at the Lacey Township Police Department. He was processed and transported to the Ocean County Correctional Facility without incident.
• Fraud – On Monday, June 4, 2018, at 8:09 p.m., Officer Brian Holt took a report from the victim of an email scam. The victim stated that he received an email from someone who he thought was his employer, that stated he was in a meeting, and asked if he could do a favor for him and purchase five, $100 iTune gift cards.   Shortly after that email, he received another email instructing him to scratch off the back of the cards to reveal the security codes and send a photo to him to which he complied. The employer then stated he needed more gift cards and to purchase $500 gift cards. At that point, he realized something was wrong and reported it to the police.
• Fraud – On Saturday, June 2, 2018, at 1:39 p.m., Officer Scott Anderson responded to police headquarters to take a report of credit card fraud. The victim reported that sometime back in October/November of 2017, he hired a man to do some work around his house. At some point, the man was inside his house and took the victim’s Home Depot credit card. The man charged $2,800 to the victim’s account. After agreeing to pay off the charges, the man paid only $1000 of the credit card debt and $1800 remained unpaid. At time of this report, the whereabouts of the handyman are unknown. The incident remains under investigation.
• Fraud – On Friday, June 1, 2018, at 4:01 p.m., Officer Michael Verwey responded to the 200 block of Sunset Drive in Forked River for a report of a possible credit card fraud. The victim stated he believed he was the victim of an internet scam. A pop-up advertisement on his computer stated his computer was hacked over 800 times and advised to call an 800 number for assistance. He spoke to a man by the name of “Dave” from Advanced Solutions who stated he would fix the issues for a fee of $1599. When the victim refused, “Dave” said he would give him a special senior discount and do it for $199. The victim agreed and provided his credit card and computer information. After hanging up the phone, the victim believed it was a scam and contacted his bank to stop payment on the credit card. The victim was advised to change all of his passwords from a different computer and cancel the credit card.

On Tuesday, June 12, 2018, Officers Michael Verwey, Michael Baldasari and Jason Lee were honored at the 2018 MADD New Jersey Law Enforcement Recognition event at the Rutgers College in New Brunswick, NJ. Both officers were honored by the Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) organization for their consistent and diligent DUI enforcement efforts.  The officers serve within the uniformed patrol division of the Lacey Township Police Department and are known locally for their consistent efforts in DUI enforcement.

Drug interdiction and DUI enforcement have been set as a priority for all sworn officers and detectives of the police department. The dedicated officers and detectives of the Lacey Township Police Department have made over 70 drug arrests as well as 38 DUI arrests in the first five months of 2018. These efforts will continue and will be intensified as we move forward. Officer Michael Verwey Officer Michael Baldasari and Officer Jason Lee have made significant contributions to the department’s proactive enforcement efforts as recognized by the MADD organization

• MV Theft – On Wednesday, June 13, 2018, Officer Scott Anderson responded to the 200 block of Lane Place in Forked River for a report of a stolen vehicle from the homeowner’s driveway. The unlocked silver, 2006 Ford F150 pickup truck was missing from the driveway when the owner woke up on June 13, 2018. The keys to the truck were kept in the glove box. Another unlocked vehicle, also parked in the driveway, was rummaged through but nothing appeared to have been taken. There were three other incidents in this area during this time of victims reporting that their vehicles were entered and rummaged through; however, there were no items reported missing This incident remains under investigation.
• Fraud/Identity Theft – On Wednesday, June 13, 2018, Officer Jason Lee responded to police headquarters to take a report of credit card fraud. The victim reported that she received an email that a Walmart credit card account was opened using her social security number. After opening the account, the unknown person charged one item at Walmart valued at $692. The victim contacted Walmart’s credit company who immediately closed the account and advised the victim to follow up with a letter to the bank.
• CDS Arrest – On Tuesday, June 12, 2018, at 9:04 p.m., Officer Patrick Watkins conducted a motor vehicle stop for speeding on Harrison Avenue in Forked River. Officer Robert Duffy arrived to assist. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 52-year-old James J. Keating of Hollywood Drive in Forked River for possession of marijuana. James Keating was transported to police headquarters and processed. He was charged on a criminal summons with Possession of CDS and possession of drug paraphernalia. He also received motor vehicle summonses for Speeding and Possession of CDS in a Motor Vehicle. James Keating was driven back to his vehicle and released without incident.
• Warrant Arrest – On Monday, June 11, 2018, at 7:43 p.m., Officer Jesse Dalziel responded to Lacey Liquors on Route 9 North in Forked River for a report of a male subject believed to be wanted on a warrant. Officer Dalziel confronted the male, 38-year-old Brian P. Salters of Nautilus Drive in Brick, NJ. Sergeant Ronald Buxton arrived on scene to assist. Investigation at the scene led to his arrest on an outstanding no bail criminal warrant out of Stafford Township Municipal Court. Brian Salters was transported to Lacey police headquarters; Stafford Township police took custody of Brian Salters after he was processed.
• Suspicious Incident/Possession of Stolen Property– On Sunday, June 10, 2018, at 10:51 a.m., Officer Michael Hutman responded to Eric Plaza on Lacey Road in Forked River for a report of a suspicious incident. The caller stated that he was thinking of purchasing an ATV that he found on Craigslist. Upon meeting the seller, he indicated that he did not have a Title, nor a Bill of Sale for the ATV. The caller provided Officer Hutman with the seller’s registration from his NJ license plate.   The seller was found on Constitution Drive in Forked River. The seller provided a photo of the VIN and upon further investigation, police officers found the ATV to be stolen out of Cleveland, Ohio. This matter remains under investigation.
• CDS Arrest – On Saturday, June 9, 2018, at 11:00 p.m., Officer Michael Baldasari conducted a motor vehicle stop on a parked vehicle on Meadowlark Drive in the beach parking lot. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the driver of the vehicle, 19-year-old Kenneth C. Kelly of Mill Street in Toms River, NJ, for possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. Kenneth Kelly was transported to Lacey police headquarters where he was processed and released without incident.
• Warrant Arrest – On Friday, June 8, 2018, at 11:13 p.m., Special Officer Michael Moeller conducted a motor vehicle stop on Dover Road near Good Luck Road. Officer Anthony Sarno arrived on scene to assist. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the passenger in the truck, 25-year-old Daniel P. O’Brien of Bayville, NJ, on several outstanding warrants out of the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department totaling over $10,000, Berkeley Township Municipal Court totaling $1022, Union Township Municipal Court in the amount of $389, and Ocean Township Municipal Court in the amount of $500. Daniel P. O’Brien was arrested on the outstanding warrants and transported to police headquarters. Daniel O’Brien was also charged criminally with Hindering Own Apprehension by Providing False Information to a Law Enforcement Officer. Unable to post bail on the existing warrants, the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department picked him up and transported him to the Ocean County Correctional Facility.
• CDS Arrest – On Friday, June 8, 2018, at 8:37 p.m., Officer Anthony Sarno conducted an investigation of a suspicious vehicle parked on Clearview Street near M Street in Forked River. Officers Christopher Meyler and Scott Keefe arrived on scene to assist. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 23-year-old Evan T. Pinney of Nancy Street in Howell, NJ, for possession of marijuana. He was transported to police headquarters, processed, and later released on a summons for Possession of Marijuana.
• Criminal Mischief – On Friday, June 8, 2018, at 930 a.m., Officer Daniel Ricciardella responded to Station Drive in Forked River for a report of criminal mischief. A rock, believed to be from the homeowner’s stone driveway, was thrown through the front storm door window. The caller stated that the damage occurred sometime during the overnight hours on June 7, 2018. The damage is estimated at $100.

• DUI Arrest – On Wednesday, June 20, 2018, at 5:46 p.m., Officer Jesse Dalziel responded to Haines Street and near Maxim Drive in Lanoka Harbor for a report of a motorcycle accident. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the operator of the motorcycle, 70-year-old Anthony P. Bertoti of Teakwood Drive in Lanoka Harbor. Anthony Bertoti was transported to police headquarters. He received a summons for DWI, Reckless Driving, and Failure to Maintain Lane. After processing, he was released without incident.
• DUI Arrest- On Friday, June 22, 2018, at 01:34 a.m., Officer Jason Lee was investigating a suspicious vehicle on Briggs Avenue, Forked River. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of Jenna Preno, 37, of Elizabeth Court, Lanoka Harbor, for DUI. She was transported, processed, and released after being issued motor vehicle summonses for DWI and Reckless Driving.  The vehicle she was drivng was impounded pursuant to John’s Law.
• Fraud – On Tuesday, June 19, 2018, at 10:30 a.m., Officer Dimitrios Tsarnas took a report of fraud. The complainant, who is employed by Benjamin Foods out of Harboro, PA, received two, $250 checks that were bad from a local establishment in Forked River.  The incident remains under investigation.
• Motor Vehicle Burglary– On Tuesday, June 19, 2018, at 4:37 a.m., Officers Brian Holt, Jesse Dalziel, and Patrick Watkins responded to the 400 block of Elwood St, Forked River, reference a burglary in progress. The suspect, 34-year-old Christopher J. Matorina, of Falkenburg Avenue in Forked River was arrested while seen rummaging through a work van parked on Cliff Lane in Forked River. Christopher Matorina was arrested, transported to police headquarters, and processed. He was charged on a criminal warrant with two counts of burglary and one count of theft. Christopher Martorina was transported to the Ocean County Correctional Facility without incident.
• Shoplifting Arrest – On Sunday, June 17, 2018, at 4:24 p.m., Officers Scott Keefe and Darrell Nick responded to Walmart on Route 9 North in Lanoka Harbor for a shoplifter in custody. The suspect, 31-year-old Randi L. Sleeper of Glen Oak Drive in Forked River was observed concealing multiple items, totaling $82, and putting them in her pocketbook. While attempting to leave the store, she was stopped by the Asset Protection Officer. Randi Sleeper was transported to police headquarters where she was processed and released on a summons without incident.
• Warrant Arrest – On Saturday, June 16, 2018, at 11:51 p.m., Officer Anthony Sarno conducted a motor vehicle stop near Haines Street on Route 9. Investigation at the scene found the back seat passenger, 34-year-old Richard J. Lenkiewicz of Princeton Avenue South in Bayville, NJ, to have two outstanding warrants. The first warrant is out of Berkeley Township Municipal Court in the amount of $1372; the second warrant is out of Rahway Municipal Court in the amount of $458. Richard Lenkiewicz was transported to police headquarters and released after paying his full cash bail for each warrant. He received a motor vehicle summons for failure to wear a seatbelt.
• CDS Arrest – On Saturday, June 16, 2018, at 1:42 a.m., Officer Michael Baldasari conducted a motor vehicle stop at the intersection of Route 9 and Nautilus Boulevard. Officer Christopher Meyler arrived on scene to assist. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 19-year-old Emma M. Borchert of Van Dyke Avenue in Forked River. She was transported to police headquarters and processed. Emma Borchert was charged on summons for possession of CDS and possession of drug paraphernalia. She also received a motor vehicle summons for Unclear License Plates and was released without incident.
• Warrant Arrest – On Friday, June 15, 2018, at 11:54 p.m., Officer Anthony Sarno conducted a motor vehicle stop on Bay Way and Route 9 North in Lanoka Harbor. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 19-year-old Kenneth C. Kelly of Mill Street in South Toms River, NJ, on an outstanding warrant out of Lacey Township Municipal Court in the amount of $500. Kenneth Kelly was transported to police headquarters and processed. Unable to post bail, he was transported to the Ocean County Correctional Facility without incident. He received a motor vehicle summons for Maintenance of Lamps.
• Warrant Arrest – On Friday, June 15, 2018, at 10:18 p.m., Officer Martin Julian and Christopher Meyler responded to the 300 block of Beach Boulevard in Forked River in an attempt to serve a Lacey Township Municipal Court warrant on 29-year-old Franklin D. Biddar, 3^rd, Beach Blvd, Forked River, NJ.   Franklin Biddar 3rd was wanted on an outstanding warrant for aggravated assault from a previous incident in Forked River.  Franklin Biddar 3rd was arrested and transported to police headquarters.  After he was processed, Franklin Biddar

Courtesy Child Seat Safety Inspection Event – The Lacey Township Police Department is hosting a courtesy (non-enforcement) Child Seat Safety Check at the Lanoka Harbor Fire House on Route 9 and Warren Avenue in Lanoka Harbor, this Wednesday, June 27, 2018. The event will be held rain or shine from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. Specially trained certified child seat technicians from the Lacey Township Police Department and the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department will be on site to conduct a courtesy child seat inspection of installed seats and to assist participants in the proper installation of child seats.

The officers of the Lacey Township Police Department are dedicated to child safety. Over 80% of child safety seats currently installed in vehicles are either the wrong seats for the child being transported or are incorrectly installed. Technicians will assist not only in the inspection of the seats, but will also educate caregivers on the proper seat selection and installation.

The event is being hosted by the Lacey Township Police Department with assistance from the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department. Inspections are expected to take approximately 20 minutes per vehicle.

If anyone has any questions in regard to these events you may contact Lieutenant Paul Sullivan, Jr., at 609-693-6636 ext. 2577.

Thank you.

– Chief Michael C. DiBella

*** Next Gille Park Skate Park Evening Event,  Tonight, June 29th, 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.

The next Gille Park Skate Park Evening Event, also known as “Friday Night Lights” will be held this evening, June 29th, 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 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) September 7th, September 21st, October 5th, October 19th, and November 2nd, 2018.  Additional dates may be announced for July and August 2018.

These events are free of charge. This includes both the Skate Park and the Gaming trailer.

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.

Thank you,

– Chief Michael C. DiBella

• Fraud – On Thursday, June 28, 2018, at 6:56 p.m., Officer Jason Lee responded to Parkers Point Boulevard in Forked River for a report of fraud. The vitim relayed to Officer Lee that they received a message on their IPad stating that they were the victim of a scam and to call the phone number on their screen. The scammer, who went by the name of “Mike Start”, requested that they purchase $3600 worth of Google Play gift cards and then provide him the with bar codes. The victims completed the purchase of the gift cards and provided the codes. Shortly after, the couple realized they had been scammed.
• DUI/Hit and Run – On Wednesday, June 27, 2018, at 1:22 p.m., Officers Scott Anderson and Jeffrey Slota were dispatched for a hit and run accident near First Street and Route 9 in Forked River. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the driver, 58-year-old Mark A. Dangelo, on Maple Road in Lanoka Harbor. Mark Dangelo was transported to police headquarters and processed.  He received motor vehicle summonses for DUI, Reckless Driving, Open Container, Failure to Report an Accident, and Leaving the Scene of an Accident. After processing, he was released without incident.
• Fire – On Monday, June 25, 2018, at 8:01 p.m., Officer Scott Keefe responded to the 300 block of Constitution Drive in Forked River for a report of smoke inside a residence. The homeowner observed smoke hovering near the ceiling inside her home.   The Lanoka Harbor Fire Department responded to the scene on scene. The origin of the smoke appeared to be coming from the dryer. The fire department removed the dryer and the smoke began to clear. The fire department deemed the interior of the residence safe and nothing appeared to be suspicious.
• Theft – On Sunday, June 24, 2018, at 1:21 p.m., Officer Michael Hein responded to police headquarters to take a report of theft. The victim reported that his motorized bike, described as a dark gray Specialized Turbo S valued at $3,500, was stolen from Caffrey’s on Route 9 South in Forked River. The theft occurred on Friday, June 22, sometime between 10:30 p.m. and 11:30 p.m.
• Missing Persons-Recovered —On Monday, June 25, 2018, at 9:50 p.m., Officer Julie Barcalow located an unoccupied vehicle on the west side of the Bamber Dam, in Bamber Lake. Officer Barcalow called in the license plate and dispatchers relayed that a call was received from a woman stating her 70-year-old husband and 17-year-old son were lost in the woods in that area. Officer Christopher Meyler and Sergeant Robert Surtees were dispatched to the location, as well as the Bamber Lake Fire Department and Lacey First Aid. The lost men were instructed to walk toward the sound of the sirens. Both men were eventually recovered.
• Dumpster Fire – On Friday, June 22, 2018, at 6:59 p.m., Officers Brian Holt and Scott Keefe responded to the Home Depot, Rout 9 North in Forked River for a report of black smoke coming from a dumpster behind the store. The Forked River Fire Department was on scene upon the officers arrival and extinguished the fire.  The Home Depot was temporarily evacuated.   Ocean County Fire Marshall Hollingsworth deemed the fire to be non-suspicious with minor damage to the inside of the garbage dumpster.
• Warrant Arrest – On Friday, June 22, 2018, at 12:41 p.m., Officer Michael Hein responded to the 500 block of Elwood Street in Forked River to serve two active warrants on 39-year-old Brenna A. Haase. Elwood Street, Forked River. Both warrants were issued out of the Lacey Township Municipal Court totaling $1000. Brenna Haase was transported to police headquarters and processed. She was later released on her own recognizance.
• Fire – On Friday, June 22, 2018, at 11:30 a.m., Officer Darrell Nick responded to Ocean Fields Residential Facility on Game Farm Road in Forked River for a report of a kitchen fire. The Forked River Fire Department was on-scene upon Officer Nick’s arrival. An employee at the facility extinguished the fire with a fire extinguisher. The employee believes the flames were coming up through the burners on the grill from the grease tray. As Ocean Fields is a State run facility, the State Fire Marshal and State Health Department were notified. There appeared to be nothing suspicious about the fire.

Township News – (Fireworks Event) – The Lacey Township fireworks display is scheduled for this evening, July 3, 2018, at dusk. The event will take place at the Lacey Township High School, located at 73 Haines Street in Lanoka Harbor. Entertainment will begin at approximately 7:00 p.m. and the fireworks will begin at dusk (approximately 9:00 pm). The Lacey Township Police Department and our local emergency services will be working to maintain a safe event while facilitating the flow of traffic before, during, and after the fireworks. Parking along several portions of the shoulder of Haines Street will be restricted to limit the danger presented by an excessive number of pedestrians crossing Haines Street from the High School.  In addition, we need to keep Haines Street as clear as possible in the case of an emergency.

If you are unable to attend the fireworks event, however, you are going to be driving during the time of this event, you may want to consider avoiding the Manchester Avenue and Haines Street roadways as they tend to back up with traffic.

Thank you and have a good evening.

-Chief Michael C. DiBella

*** Illegal Trespassing – Off Road Enforcement Details Begin This Saturday, July 7, 2018 ***

Illegal Trespassing – Off-Road Enforcement Details – Beginning this Saturday, July 7, 2018, the Lacey Township Police Department will be coordinating off-road enforcement details, working with various law enforcement agencies, including, but not limited to the New Jersey State Police, Ocean County Sheriff’s Department, New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife Bureau of Law Enforcement, Ocean Township Police Department (Waretown) and the Barnegat Township Police Department. The purpose of these details is to reduce/prevent the influx of persons in off-road vehicles (ATVs, dirt-bikes, etc.) trespassing on private property and protected conservation lands in the wooded areas west of the Garden State Parkway in Lacey Township, Ocean Township, and Barnegat Township, and to reduce serious injuries and offenses that have been occurring over the last few years. The wooded area of concern covers over 60 square-miles. In recent years, a main entry point has been immediately off the Garden State Parkway in Lacey Township, so the New Jersey State Police have once again been requested for assistance.

The details will begin this weekend and continue through October 2018. The issue of off-road vehicles in the wooded areas is not a simple matter of just trespassing, as it has been a significant public safety concern with some serious criminal offenses occurring in the woods. During the summer of 2016, the off-road task force arrested several persons in the woods for violating laws, including an adult male subject who was found to be in possession of an assault rifle, a Walther P38 9mm handgun, eight 30-round high-capacity magazines, and one 100-round drum magazine, and various forms of ammunition. Several other arrests were made for offenses including but not limited to Underage Consumption of Alcohol and Eluding. In addition, there have been serious off-road motor vehicle crashes in the woods, including an incident in 2016 involving a 20-year-old male who suffered a broken neck as a passenger in a truck that flipped over while the group was trespassing on private property.

With the warm weather and the significant forest fire concerns, the Lacey Township Police Department is working to quell the anticipated influx of large groups trespassing, who bring trailers full of dirt bikes and ATVs and stage along the powerlines and other areas throughout the western part of Lacey Township, Ocean Township and Barnegat Township. The trespassing and violations of the ATV laws tend to grow significantly at times due to online forums, websites, etc., which, from time to time, profile Lacey Township as a place to ride. Much of the 60 square miles west of the Garden State Parkway is private property which means the individual ATV operator would need to have in his or her possession written permission from the specific property owner to ride on the property.

A 2018 federal grant provided to Lacey Township will be utilized toward the cost of these off-road enforcement details.

The off-road enforcement details will begin this weekend and continue into the Fall.  Thank you,

-Chief Michael C. DiBella