*** Overdose Awareness Event, Thursday, August 30th, 2018 ***

Our local overdose awareness event, hosted by Young People in Recovery of Ocean County, will be held this Thursday, August 30, 2018, from 6pm to 9pm at the Lacey United Methodist Church, located at 203 Lacey Road in Forked River.  This event is one of many being held nationally, and in New Jersey it is provided by Fed Up, a local coalition working to stop the opioid epidemic . The nationwide event is designed to bring education and more awareness to the opioid epidemic, along with remembering those we lost.

Featured speakers for our local event include Congressman Tom MacArthur, Ocean County Prosecutor Joseph D. Coronato and Lacey Township Police Chief Michael C. DiBella.  In addition, there will be other speakers, including, but not limited to, speakers from treatment centers, recovery groups, and local clergy.  Organizations attending include, but are not limited to, Lifeline Recovery Support Services, Hope Sheds Light, Young People in Recovery of Ocean County, Recovery Centers of America, the DART Prevention Coalition, NJ Reentry Corporation, Integrity House, Mental Health Association in New Jersey Inc, and America’s Keswick.

The event will also feature a candle light vigil for lives lost due to an overdose.

This event is free and open to the public.

If anyone has any questions please contact Donna from Young People in Recovery of Ocean County at 732-425-7938.

Thank you,

Chief Michael C. DiBella

*** Overdose Awareness Event, Thursday, August 30th, 2018 ***

Our local overdose awareness event, hosted by Young People in Recovery of Ocean County, will be held this Thursday, August 30, 2018, from 6pm to 9pm at the Lacey United Methodist Church, located at 203 Lacey Road in Forked River.  This event is one of many being held nationally, and in New Jersey it is provided by Fed Up, a local coalition working to stop the opioid epidemic . The nationwide event is designed to bring education and more awareness to the opioid epidemic, along with remembering those we lost.

Featured speakers for our local event include Congressman Tom MacArthur, Ocean County Prosecutor Joseph D. Coronato and Lacey Township Police Chief Michael C. DiBella.  In addition, there will be other speakers, including, but not limited to, speakers from treatment centers, recovery groups, and local clergy.  Organizations attending include, but are not limited to, Lifeline Recovery Support Services, Hope Sheds Light, Young People in Recovery of Ocean County, Recovery Centers of America, the DART Prevention Coalition, NJ Reentry Corporation, Integrity House, Mental Health Association in New Jersey Inc, and America’s Keswick.

The event will also feature a candle light vigil for lives lost due to an overdose.

This event is free and open to the public.

If anyone has any questions please contact Donna from Young People in Recovery of Ocean County at 732-425-7938.

Thank you,

Chief Michael C. DiBella

*** County-Wide “Move Over Law” Education Initiative This Weekend ***

The  Lacey Township Police Department will be participating in a county-wide education initiative specific to the Move Over Law this coming Labor Day weekend.

In the light of a recent event in Manchester Township, NJ, where four (4) Police Officers on a roadside motor vehicle stop/search were injured after the vehicle they had stopped was struck by another motorist, Ocean County Law Enforcement Agencies will be participating in a “Move Over Operation” which will be designed to educate the motoring public on the law.

The Move Over Law was born for the tragic death of a New Jersey State Trooper, Marc Castellano who was killed on I-195.

“The Move Over Law requires a driver approaching a stationary emergency vehicle with flashing, blinking or alternating red or blue lights to do so cautiously and, if possible based on the existing safety and traffic conditions, “make a lane change into a lane not adjacent to the . . . emergency vehicle.”

The Law:

New Jersey Statute 39:4-92.2

Procedure for motorist approaching certain stationary vehicle.

1. a. The operator of a motor vehicle approaching a stationary authorized emergency vehicle as defined in R.S.39:1-1 that is displaying a flashing, blinking or alternating red or blue light or, any configuration of lights containing one of these colors, shall approach the authorized emergency vehicle with due caution and shall, absent any other direction by a law enforcement officer, proceed as follows:

(1) Make a lane change into a lane not adjacent to the authorized emergency vehicle if possible in the existing safety and traffic conditions; or

(2) If a lane change pursuant to paragraph (1) of subsection a. of this section would be impossible, prohibited by law or unsafe, reduce the speed of the motor vehicle to a reasonable and proper speed for the existing road and traffic conditions, which speed shall be less than the posted speed limit, and be prepared to stop.

b. The operator of a motor vehicle approaching a stationary tow truck as defined in section 1 of P.L.1999, c.396 (C.39:3-84.6) that is displaying a flashing amber light, a stationary highway maintenance or emergency service vehicle that is operated by the State, an authority or a county or municipality and displaying flashing yellow, amber, or red lights, or a stationary sanitation vehicle displaying a flashing amber warning light pursuant to section 1 of P.L.2011, c.3 (C.39:3-54.27) shall approach the vehicle with due caution and shall, absent any other direction by a law enforcement officer, proceed as follows:

(1) Make a lane change into a lane not adjacent to the tow truck, highway maintenance or emergency service vehicle, or sanitation vehicle if possible in the existing safety and traffic conditions; or

(2) If a lane change under paragraph (1) of subsection b. of this section would be impossible, prohibited by law or unsafe, reduce the speed of the motor vehicle to a reasonable and proper speed for the existing road and traffic conditions, which speed shall be less than the posted speed limit, and be prepared to stop.

c. A violation of this section shall be punished by a fine of not less than $100 and not more than $500.

For those unfamiliar with the Move Over Law’s history please take a few moments to visit the below link.

http://octrafficsafety.org/move-over-law/

-Chief Michael C. DiBella

*** Overdose Awareness Event, Thursday, August 30th, 2018 ***

Our local overdose awareness event, hosted by Young People in Recovery of Ocean County, will be held tomorrow evening (Thursday), August 30, 2018, from 6pm to 9pm at the Lacey United Methodist Church, located at 203 Lacey Road in Forked River.  This event is one of many being held nationally, and in New Jersey it is provided by Fed Up, a local coalition working to stop the opioid epidemic . The nationwide event is designed to bring education and more awareness to the opioid epidemic, along with remembering those we lost.

Featured speakers for our local event include Congressman Tom MacArthur, Ocean County Prosecutor Joseph D. Coronato and Lacey Township Police Chief Michael C. DiBella.  In addition, there will be other speakers, including, but not limited to, speakers from treatment centers, recovery groups, and local clergy.  Organizations attending include, but are not limited to, Lifeline Recovery Support Services, Hope Sheds Light, Young People in Recovery of Ocean County, Recovery Centers of America, the DART Prevention Coalition, NJ Reentry Corporation, Integrity House, Mental Health Association in New Jersey Inc, and America’s Keswick.

The event will also feature a candle light vigil for lives lost due to an overdose.

This event is free and open to the public.

If anyone has any questions please contact Donna from Young People in Recovery of Ocean County at 732-425-7938.

Thank you,

Chief Michael C. DiBella

• Underage Consumption/Warrant Arrest- On Thursday, August 30, 2018 at 8:48 p.m., Officer Jason Lee responded to the intersection of Lacey Road and Route 9, Forked River, for a male subject lying on the ground. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of Jontel Luke, 19, of Windsor Street, Forked River, for underage consumption of alcohol. Additionally, a traffic warrant in the amount of $139.00 out of Brick Twp was located. Jontel Luke was transported to police headquarters, processed, and released on his own recognizance after being unable to post cash bail. He was also charged on a special form of complaint summons with underage consumption of alcohol.
• DUI with Accident – On Thursday, August 30, 2018, at 1:25 a.m., Officer Robert Duffy responded to Sunrise Boulevard near Leeward Drive in Forked River for a motor vehicle accident. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the driver of the vehicle, 34-year-old Christian Santiago of Barnegat Boulevard, Barnegat, NJ, for DUI. He was transported to police headquarters and processed. Christian Santiago was issued motor vehicle summonses for DWI, Reckless Driving, and Failure to Maintain Lane. The vehicle he was driving was impounded pursuant to John’s Law.
• Warrant Arrest – On Tuesday, August 28, 2018, at 11:36 p.m., Officers Christopher Meyler and Jason Lee responded to 424 Route 9 in Forked River for a suspicious male. Investigation at the scene revealed that the male, 27-year-old Ryan D. Territo of Poplar Street, Waretown, NJ, had an active no bail warrant out of Howell Township Municipal Court. Ryan Territo was transferred to the custody of Howell Township Police without incident.
• Theft – On Tuesday, August 28, 2018, at 10:29 a.m., Officer John McKee responded to police headquarters to take a report of theft of a bicycle. The victim reported that between the hours of 8:30 p.m. on Monday, and 10:00 a.m., on Tuesday, her son’s bicycle, a Shaun White Supply Co. Thrash 2.5 BMX, was taken from the front yard of her residence, located on Tampa Road, Forked River. The bicycle is valued at $25.
• Warrant Arrest – On Tuesday, August 28, 2018, at 8:58 a.m., Officer Michael Verwey responded to the 2000 block of Lakeside Drive South in Forked River to investigate a local ordinance violation. Investigation at the scene revealed that the subject, 29-year-old Wesley R. Kremple of Lakeside Drive South, Forked River, had an outstanding warrant for his arrest out of the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department with bail set at $9366. He was taken into custody and transported to the Ocean County Correctional Facility without incident. Wesley Kremple received a summons for Creating a Hazard.
• Drug Arrest – On Monday, August 27, 2018, at 10:20 p.m., Officers Martin Julian and Chris Meyler were dispatched to the 500 block of Vaughn Avenue in Forked River for a suspicious vehicle. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 18-year-old Davin G. Yurick of Vaughn Avenue, Forked River, for possession of CDS. Davin Yurick was transported to police headquarters and processed. He was served with a criminal summons for Possession of Less than 50 grams of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and later released on his own recognizance.
• Warrant Arrest – On Monday, August 27, 2018, at 5:04 p.m., Officer Scott Keefe conducted a motor vehicle stop on Lake Barnegat Drive North and Steuben Avenue in Forked River. Officer George Resetar arrived on scene to assist. Further investigation revealed that the driver of the vehicle, 40-year-old Andrea S. Witter of 7^th Avenue, Long Branch, NJ, had an outstanding traffic warrant out of Holmdel Township Municipal Court in the amount of $500. After satisfying her bail, Andrea Witter was released.
• DUI Arrest – On Sunday, August 26, 2018, Officer Anthony Sarno conducted a motor vehicle stop near the Lacey Inn on Route 9 in Forked River. Officer Jason Lee arrived on scene to assist. Further investigation led to the arrest of the driver, 61-year-old Vicki Franklin of Jericho Lane, Salem, NJ, for DUI. She was transported to police headquarters and processed. Vicki Franklin was issued motor vehicle summonses for DWI, Reckless, Impeding the Flow of Traffic, and Failure to Maintain Lane. The vehicle she was driving was impounded pursuant to John’s Law.
• Theft – On Sunday, August 26, 2018, at 11:56 a.m., Officer Dan Ricciardella responded to Murray Grove Lane in Forked River for theft of a bicycle. The caller reported that a boys “Specialized” bicycle was stolen from her property. The bicycle is valued at $900.
• DUI with Accident – On Sunday, August 26, 2018, at 12:45 a.m., Officer Michael Baldasari responded to East Lacey Road and Starboard Street in Forked River for a motor vehicle accident. While investigating the accident, an additional vehicle arrived on scene. The driver of that vehicle, 43-year-old Antonio Nirvana of Beverly Road, Forked River, was arrested for DUI. She was transported to police headquarters and processed. Antonio Nirvana received motor vehicle summonses for Driving While Intoxicated, Reckless Driving, Improper Backing, and Uninsured Motor Vehicle. The vehicle she was driving was impounded pursuant to John’s Law.
• DUI with Accident – On Saturday, August 25, 2018, at 11:00 p.m., Officers Jason Lee and Julie Barcalow were dispatched to the 300 block of East Lacey Road near Joey Harrison’s River House in Forked River for a motor vehicle accident. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 52-year-old Holly S. LaFalce of James Drive, Waretown, NJ, for DUI. Holly LaFalce was transported to police headquarters where she was processed. She received motor vehicle summonses for DWI, Reckless Driving, and Careless Driving. The vehicle she was driving was impounded pursuant to John’s Law.

On Wednesday, September 05, 2018 at 8:54 a.m., the Lacey Township Police Department received multiple phone and 911 calls reporting a large volume of smoke coming from the roof of Caffrey’s Tavern, located at 440 Route 9 South in Forked River. Upon arrival, officers observed heavy smoke emanating from the kitchen area of the restaurant along with large volumes of flames coming from the roof. Officers confirmed everyone was evacuated from the restaurant.

The Forked River, Lanoka Harbor and Bamber Lake Fire Companies responded to the initial alarm. A short time later the Forked River Fire Department requested a second alarm activating several Fire Companies throughout Ocean County. As the fire progressed Route 9 was closed in both directions between Lakeside Drive South and Parker’s Point Boulevard. Lacey Township EMS and Lanoka Harbor First Aid responded, along with a firefighter rehabilitation unit from Stafford Township.

The Ocean County Fire Marshal’s Office, the NJ State Fire Marshal’s Office, the Lacey Township Police Detective Bureau, the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department and the Ocean County Prosecutors Office responded and assisted in the investigation. Traffic control was maintained with the assistance of the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department and the NJ Department of Transportation.

Route 9 was reopened in both directions at 1:45 p.m. The investigation is ongoing.

I would like to give a special thanks to the Wawa, located across the street from Caffrey’s Tavern, for all of their support during the fire.

-Chief Michael C. DiBella

*** Tonight’s Skate Park Event Has Been Cancelled Due to Possible Thunderstorms***

***  Gille Park Skate Park Evening Event for Tonight, September 7th, 2018 Has Been Cancelled ***

The next Gille Park Skate Park Evening Event, also known as “Friday Night Lights” will be held on Friday, September 21, 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) October 5th, October 19th, and November 2nd, 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

• Drug Paraphernalia Arrest- On Thursday, September 6, 2018, at 8:50 a.m., Officer Michael Hutman responded to the parking lot of Walmart, 580 Route 9, Lanoka Harbor, for a suspicious vehicle.  The investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the driver, 30-year old Jessie Monaghan, Kingfischer Way, Manchester, or possession of drug paraphernalia.  He was transported to police headquarters, processed, and released on a criminal summons, charging him with possession of drug paraphernalia.
• Structure Fire – On Wednesday, September 5, 2018, at 8:54 a.m., the Lacey Township Police Department received a call for service for heavy smoke coming from the roof of Caffrey’s Tavern located on Route 9 South, Forked River. Arriving officers confirmed that there was no one inside the building. Forked River, Lanoka Harbor, and Bamber Lake Fire Companies responded on the initial alarm. The Forked River Fire Chief called for a second alarm activating several fire companies throughout Ocean County. Lacey EMS and Lanoka Harbor First Aid responded along with a firefighter rehabilitation unit from Staffford Township. Several other fire companies arrived to the scene after a third alarm was activated. Members from the Ocean County Fire Marshal’s Office as well as the NJ State Fire Marshal’s Office responded. Traffic control was maintained with the assistance of the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department as well as the NJ Department of Transportation. The investigation is ongoing.
• Warrant Arrest – On Sunday, September 2, 2018, at 1:14 p.m., Officer Randolph Plis responded to police headquarters for a male subject surrendering on a warrant. The subject, 39-year-old Christopher W. Haines of Seabright Road in Forked River had an outstanding no bail warrant out of Berkeley Township Municipal Court and was taken into custody. Berkeley Township Police responded to transport Christopher Haines to the Ocean County Correctional Facility without incident.
• Theft – On Sunday, September 2, 2018, at 10:34 a.m., Officer Randolph Plis responded to police headquarters to take a report of theft. The victim reported that while she was out, her prescription medication was stolen. She stored the medication in an abandoned vehicle on her uncle’s property on Station Drive in Forked River. When she returned to the vehicle, her medication was gone. The value of the stolen medication is $136. The theft took place on September 1, 2018 at approximately 2:00 p.m.
• Shoplifting Arrest – On Saturday, September 1, 2018, at 4:24 p.m., Officer Andrew Slota responded to Kohl’s on Route 9 in Lanoka Harbor for a report of shoplifting. The loss prevention employee reported that he observed a female in the store conceal a ring inside her pocket. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 18-year-old Dana Bea of Eleanor Road in Forked River. She was transported to police headquarters and processed. She received a summons for shoplifting and was released without incident.
• Fraud-Scam Alert- On Saturday, September 1, 2018, Officer Noah Schaffer responded to residence on Daytona Road, Forked River, for a resident who was scammed out of approximately $70,000.00. The resident reported that he applied for a job online that required him to buy Apple iPhones, and ship them off to Hong Kong. In return, he was promised a %10 commission after he transfers the funds back into his account from a fraudulent bank account.  The reimbursement funds never cleared into his personal account, to which the victim has reported losses of over $70,000.
• Bicyclist Struck – On Saturday, September 1, 2018 at 2:21 p.m., Officer Michael Hutman responded to 606 Lacey Road for a bicyclist that was struck by motor vehicle. The vehicle was travelling at a low rate of speed. The cyclist, a 57-year-old woman, suffered a broken ankle and she transported to Southern Ocean County Hospital.

The Annual Lacey Township Flu Inoculation will take place at Saint Pius Church, located at 300 Lacey Road in Forked River, on Thursday, October 4, 2018, from 10am to 12pm. The Ocean County Health Department will provide flu and Pneumonia vaccinations.

Influenza and Pneumonia vaccinations are free if enrolled in Medicare Part B.

If not enrolled in Medicare Part B, or you have a Medicare Managed Care Plan, the cost will be $20.00 (cash of check).

For additional information see the below link.

http://laceytownship.org/filestorage/3700/3702/3851/2018Flu.pdf

In addition, the Lacey Township Police Department’s portable Medicine Dropbox will be on location.  Residents may bring their unwanted medication to the flu inoculation and simply drop the medication into the clearly marked Dropbox without any other steps necessary. NO syringes or liquids may be dropped, as they are NOT permitted. The drop box is for medication only.

Thank you.

• Shoplifting Arrest- On Thursday, September 13, 2018, at 8:54 p.m., Officer Anthony Sarno responded to Walmart in Lanoka Harbor to investigate a shoplifting incident. The Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 45-year old Kristen Arntz, Leeward Avenue, Beachwood, NJ. Kristen Arntz was transported to police headquarters, processed, and released after being charged on a criminal summons with shoplifting.
• CDS Arrest/Warrant Arrest – On Wednesday, September 12, 2018, at 8:13 p.m., Officers Michael Baldasari, Julie Barcalow and Anthony Sarno responded to the Wawa located on Route 9 South and Taylor Lane in Forked River for a suspicious incident. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 27-year-old Ryan D. Territo of Poplar Street in Waretown, NJ, on an outstanding warrant out of Howell Township Municipal Court in the amount of $1000. During a search incident to arrest. Officer Keefe located several wax folds, containing suspect heroin, as well as a hypodermic syringe. Ryan Territo was transported to headquarters where he was processed and served with a criminal warrant for Possession of CDS and Possession of a Hypodermic Syringe and transported to the Ocean County Correctional Facility without incident.
• Warrant Arrest – On Tuesday, September 11, 2018, at 11:50 p.m., Officer Scott Keefe was on routine patrol when he came upon two suspicious subjects in the Town Square parking lot on Lacey Road in Forked River. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of Shaddiy R. Whittaker of Elwood Street in Forked River on two outstanding warrants, the first out of Barnegat Township Municipal Court for $475 and the second out of Neptune Township Municipal Court for $2000. Shaddiy Whittaker was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters. Neptune Township Police responded to police headquarters and took custody of Shaddiy Whitaker after he was unable to post bail.
• Transformer Fire – On Sunday, September 9, 2018, at 10:22 p.m., Officer Elton Copes responded to East Lacey Road, near Enos Pond Park, for a report of a downed telephone pole. The telephone pole had broken off from the top, presumably from the high wind conditions, and fell into the street. The high voltage wires were on the ground arcing and causing small fires prompting the Forked River Fire Department to respond. Officer Copes and Forked River Fire Department secured the scene and remained on location until JCP&L arrived. As a result, several residences were without power for several hours.
• Criminal Mischief – On Sunday, September 9, 2018, a 9:15 a.m., Officer Alan Abrecht responded to the 600 block of Devon Street in Forked River for a report of criminal mischief. The homeowner stated that during the overnight hours, an unknown person or persons damaged his mailbox. The damage to the mailbox is estimated at $100.
• Residential Burglary – On Sunday, September 9, 2018 at 5:41 a.m., Officers Noah Schaffer and Jeffrey Slota responded to the 800 block of Pensacola Road in Forked River for a residential burglary. In the early morning hours on Sunday, while the occupants were not home, an unknown person or persons reportedly entered the residence and stole jewelry, cash, prescription medications and miscellaneous household items. The value of the merchandise stolen from the residence is estimated at over $7000. There were no signs of forced entry to the residence however, there was several items damaged inside the residence, totaling approximately $255. Detective Pearce responded to the scene and the incident remains under investigation.
• DWI Arrest – On Saturday, September 8, 2018, at 1:55 a.m., Officers Jesse Dalziel and Rob Duffy responded to the 1400 block of Jay Street in Forked River for a dispute. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 53-year-old Jeffrey A. Grosso of Silver Court, Bayville, NJ, for DWI. Jeffrey was transported to police headquarters and processed. He received motor vehicle summonses for DWI and Reckless Driving. The vehicle he was driving was impounded pursuant to John’s Law.
• DWI with Accident – On Friday, September 7, 2018, at 8:16 p.m., Officer Jason Lee responded to the intersection of Route 9 and South Street for a motor vehicle accident where one of the drivers fled the scene. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the fleeing driver, who was later identified as 53-year-old Robert K. Coughran, Amsterdam Avenue, in Bayville, NJ for DWI. Robert Coughran was transported to police headquarters and processed. Robert Coughran received motor vehicle summonses for DWI, Reckless Driving, Failure to Report a traffic accident, Leaving the Scene of a traffic accident, and Following Too Closely.
• Warrant Arrest – On Friday, September 7, 2018, at 9:27 a.m., Officer Dimitrios Tsarnas conducted a motor vehicle stop on Jones Road and Route 9 in Forked River, for suspended driver’s license. Investigation at the scene revealed that the driver, 42-year-old Paul B. Hogans, III, of Second Avenue, Toms River, NJ also had an active child support warrant out of Mercer County Sheriff’s Department, with a bail amount of $1780.64. He was transported to police headquarters and processed. Paul B. Hogans, III, was released on his own recognizance after receiving a summons for Driving while Suspended.

*** Next Gille Park Skate Park Evening Event,  Friday, September 21st, 2018 ***

The next Gille Park Skate Park Evening Event, also known as “Friday Night Lights” will be held this Friday evening, September 21st, 2018, beginning 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) October 5th, October 19th, and November 2nd, 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

*** Courtesy Child Safety Seat Inspection Event ***

Courtesy Child Seat Safety Inspection Event – The Lacey Township Police Department is hosting a courtesy (non-enforcement) Child Seat Safety check on Sunday, September 23, 2018, in the southeast parking lot of the Lacey Township Walmart, located at 580 Route 9 North in Lanoka Harbor. The event will be held from 9 a.m until 1 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 courtesy child seat inspections of installed seats and to assist participants in the proper installation of child seats.

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 and the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department. Inspections are expected to take approximately 20 minutes per vehicle.

Thank you,

-Chief Michael C. DiBella

• Criminal Mischief Auto – On Wednesday, September 19, 2018, at 3:34 p.m., Officer John McKee responded to the 400 block of Lacey Road in Forked River for a report of criminal mischief to a vehicle. The victim reported that sometime between 6:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 19, 2018, an unknown person(s) smashed the driver side window and top window. The vehicle was parked on the east side of the parking lot. It appeared that no property was stolen from the vehicle. Estimated damage to the vehicle is $400.
• Warrant Arrests – On Monday, September 17, 2018, at 7:17 p.m., Officers Patrick Watkins, Rob Duffy, Jason Lee, and Jesse Dalziel responded to the 400 block of Ensign Road in Forked River for a report of a dispute. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 26-year-old Jamie O’Kane, Carriage Way, Forked River, on an outstanding warrant out of the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department.  Jamie O’Kane was unable to post bail and was transported to the Ocean County Correctional Facility without incident. The second subject, 32-year-old Thomas Beers, Ensign Drive, Forked River, was arrested on an outstanding warrant out of Mays Landing Municipal Court in the amount of $589. After posting bail, Thomas was released on his own recognizance.
• DUI Arrest – On Saturday, September 15, 2018, at 11:14 p.m., Officer Jesse Dalziel conducted a motor vehicle stop on Birch Road in Lanoka Harbor. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 64-year-old Rita E. DiStefano of Creek Red Road, Mountainside, NJ, for DUI. Rita was transported to police headquarters and processed. She received motor vehicle summonses for DUI, Reckless Driving, and Failure to Maintain Lane. The vehicle she was driving was impounded pursuant to John’s Law.
• Criminal Mischief – On Saturday, September 15, 2018, at 11:11 a.m., Officer Alan Abrecht responded to the 800 block of Alpine Street in Forked River for a complaint of criminal mischief to a motor vehicle. The victim reported that an unknown person(s) scratched the driver’s side doors and hood of her rental vehicle. The victim believes the incident occurred sometime between the hours of 1:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Saturday morning.
• DUI Arrest – On Saturday, September 15, 2018, at 1:35 a.m., Officer Jason Lee conducted a motor vehicle stop on Hoffman Avenue in Lanoka Harbor. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 51-year-old Scott J. Laux of Harris Road, Forked River, for DUI. Scott was transported to police headquarters and processed. He received motor vehicle summonses for DUI, Refusal to Submit Breath Sample, Failure to Maintain Lane, Reckless Driving, and Impeding the Flow of Traffic. The vehicle he was driving was impounded pursuant to John’s Law.
• Warrant Arrest – On Friday, September 14, 2018, at 4:13 p.m., Officer Elton Copes responded to Walmart on Route 9 in Lanoka Harbor for a suspicious person inside the store. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 31-year-old Michael R. Clancy of Crestwood Place, Forked River, on an outstanding warrant out of Robbinsville Municipal Court in the amount of $678.88. Michael was transported to police headquarters and processed. He was released on his own recognizance and assigned a new court date.

• CDS Arrest – On Wednesday, September 26, 2018, at 12:33 p.m., Officers John McKee and Randolph Plis were dispatched to Wawa on Lacey Road in Forked River for a suspicious vehicle. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 36-year-old James M. Salerno of Kresson Court of Toms River, NJ. James Salerno was transported to police headquarters and processed. He was released after receiving a criminal summons for possession of CDS (toxic chemicals).
• DWI Arrest – On Wednesday, September 26, 2018, at 1:09 a.m., Officer Patrick Watkins conducted a motor vehicle stop on Trenton Avenue in Forked River. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 38-year-old Paul C. Wehner of Washington Avenue, Wall Township, NJ, for DWI. Paul Wehner was transported to police headquarters and processed. He received motor vehicle summonses for DWI, Reckless Driving and Open Container. The vehicle he was driving was impounded pursuant to John’s Law.
• Warrant Arrest – On Tuesday, September 25, 2018, at 12:58 a.m., Officers Elton Copes and Patrick Watkins responded to the 1700 block of Beach Boulevard in Forked River after receiving a report of a suspicious male. The officers were able to identify the individual as 25-year-old, Joshua Ridley of Toms River. Further investigation revealed that Joshua Ridley had two outstanding warrants out of Manchester Township Municipal Court totaling $1002. Joshua Ridley was transported to police headquarters where he indicated that he was unable to post bail. As a result, Joshua Ridley was transferred to Manchester Township Police custody and transported to the Ocean County Correctional Facility without incident
• Warrant Arrest – On Tuesday, September 25, 2018, at 9:54 p.m., Officer Jason Lee conducted a motor vehicle stop on Route 9 South in Forked River. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the driver 25-year-old Jenna Oconnor of Sunrise Boulevard, Forked River, on four outstanding warrants. The out of the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department in the amount of $10,105; the second from Ocean Township Municipal Court in the amount of $2,500; the third from Neptune Township Municipal Court in the amount of $1,500; and the fourth, a no bail warrant, out of Monmouth County Sheriff’s Department. Jenna Oconnor was transported to police headquarters where she issued summonses for times when headlights are required and unlicensed driver. Jenna Oconnor was then transported to the Ocean County Correctional Facility without incident in default of bail.
• Criminal Mischief Auto – On Saturday, September 22, 2018, at 6:47 p.m., Officer Rob Duffy responded to the 600 block of Williams Avenue in Forked River for a report of criminal mischief to a vehicle. The owner of the vehicle reported that between the hours of 10:00 p.m. on Friday, September 21, and 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 22, an unknown person or persons made a two-foot long scratch on the driver’s side door of her vehicle while it was parked in the roadway directly in front of her residence. The damage to the door is estimated at $200.
• Theft – On Saturday, September 22, 2018, at 1:53 p.m., Officer Michael Hutman responded to the 300 block of Harzold Road in Forked River for a report of a theft. The victim stated that between the hours of 11:00 p.m. on Friday September 21 and 1:30pm on Saturday September 22, an unknown person or persons stole a hardtop cover for a Jeep Wrangler, valued at $900, from the front lawn of his home, although no other items were taken.
• Criminal Mischief Auto – On Saturday, September 22, 2018, at 11:33 a.m., Officer Dimitrios Tsarnas took a report of criminal mischief on the 800 block of Alpine Street in Forked River. The victim indicated that an unknown person or persons put water in the gas line of his vehicle while it was parked in the driveway of his residence during the night hours of September 17, 2018, resulting in approximately $17,000 to $20,000 worth of damage.
• Fraud – On Saturday, September 22, 2018, at 9:50 a.m., Officer Scott Anderson responded to the 900 block of Lacey Road in Forked River for a fraud report. The complainant stated that while he was checking his email, he noticed that he received a notification from Capital One stating that a new user was authorized to use his Visa account. He immediately called Capital One and cancelled the card and closed the account, before any fraudulent charges accrued. The complainant was advised to monitor his credit for any other fraudulent activity.
• CDS Arrest – On Friday, September 21, 2018, at 9:46 p.m., Chief Michael DiBella conducted a traffic stop on East Lacey Road and Route 9 North, near the Lacey Library, for failure to maintain lane. Officers Michael Baldasari and Chris Meyler quickly arrived on scene to assist. After speaking with the driver, who was identified as 27-year-old Ashley Derose of Continental Avenue, Bayville, NJ, she indicated that she was in possession of marijuana. As a result, Ashley Derose was placed under arrest, transported to police headquarters and processed. She received a summons for possession of CDS and possession of drug paraphernalia. In addition, Ashley received a motor vehicle summons for failure to maintain lane.
• Criminal Mischief – On Friday, September 21, 2018, at 8:37 a.m., Officer Randolph Plis responded to Community Hall on Route 9 North in Forked River for a report of vandalism to township property. An employee from the Department of Public Works was cleaning the men’s bathroom on the first floor when he noticed carvings on the wall of the bathroom stall. The vandalism is believed to have happened between Tuesday, September 11, and Thursday, September 20, 2018. The estimated cost of damage is $25.

Due to a serious motor vehicle incident, Lacey Road will be closed to both eastbound and westbound traffic between the Manchester Township Line and Dover Road until further notice

Lacey Road has been reopened for both eastbound and westbound traffic between the Manchester Township Line and Dover Road.

On Friday, Sept 28, 2018, at approximately 1537 hours, officers from the Lacey Township Police Department responded to a motor vehicle collision on West Lacey Road in the area of the Bamber Lake VFW.

Preliminary investigation revealed that William Orr, a 67 year-old resident from Whiting, NJ, was traveling west on Lacey Road when his vehicle crossed over the centerline, striking a vehicle head-on that was traveling east on Lacey Road. That vehicle was being driven by Elizabeth Patashinsky, a 40 year-old from Cocoa, Florida, who had been staying in the Keansburg, New Jersey area.

William Orr did not sustain any serious injuries. Elizabeth Patashinsky had to be extricated from her vehicle and sustained significant injuries as a result of the crash. She later succumbed to her injuries at Community Medical Center.  Her passenger, identified as William Muset, a 63 year-old resident of Whiting, NJ, was transported to Community Medical Center for chest pain. He is in stable condition.

Responding agencies included the Forked River and Bamber Lakes Fire Company, MONOC Paramedics, and ambulances from Lacey Township EMS and Quality Medical Transport. The Ocean County Sheriff’s Department CSI Unit also responded to assist in the investigation, as well as members of the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Fatal Accident Support Team.

The collision remains under investigation by members of the Lacey Township Crash Team.

-Chief Michael C. DiBella

*** Next Gille Park Skate Park Evening Event,  This Friday, October 5th, 2018 ***

The next Gille Park Skate Park Evening Event, also known as “Friday Night Lights” will be held this Friday evening, October 5th, 2018, beginning 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) October 19th, and November 2nd, 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

•Theft – On Wednesday, October 3, 2018, at 10:40 a.m., Officer Michael Hutman responded to police headquarters to take a report of theft of a stolen bicycle. The victim reported that at an unknown date and time, a black beach cruiser with gray pin striping was stolen from the backyard shed of her Jones Road residence in Forked River. The bicycle was last seen on September 9, 2018. The value of the beach cruiser is $800.
•Theft – On Tuesday, October 2, 1018, at 3:29 p.m., Officer Dimitrios Tsarnas responded to police headquarters to take a report of theft. The victim reported that medication and credit cards were taken from her purse while located inside her residence. She believes the theft occurred between 1:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. on Monday, October 1, 2018. The total amount of the theft is estimated at $17.
•Theft – On Monday, October 1, 2018, at 10:25 a.m., Officer Michael Hutman responded to Lacey Shell on Lacey Road in Forked River for a report of theft of gas. The complainant stated that a large red dump truck with a gray cargo bed requested $100 worth of diesel fuel and while the attendant was busy with other customers, the dump truck left without paying. The incident remains under investigation.
•Warrant Arrest/CDS Arrest – On Monday, October 1, 2018, at 8:12 a.m., Officers Andrew Slota and Noah Schaffer responded to the Wawa on Taylor Lane and Route 9 South in Forked River for a suspicious incident. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 29-year-old Corey L. Heulitt of Beach Boulevard, Forked River. Corey Heulitt was found to have two outstanding warrants out of Long Branch Municipal Court totaling $2750. He was transported to police headquarters and processed. A search incident to arrest recovered hypodermic syringes and CDS, to which criminal complaints were signed. He was unable to post bail and was transported to the Ocean County Correctional Facility without incident.
•Assist other Agency – On Sunday, September 30, 2018, at 8:26 p.m., Officer Jesse Dalziel responded to the marshy area off of Sunrise Boulevard in Forked River. A 20+ foot boat was stuck in the marsh with several occupants. The US Coast Guard was notified and responded along with BoatUS. They removed the boat and no further assistance was needed.
•DUI Arrest – On Sunday, September 30, 2018, at 4:05 p.m., Officer Jason Lee conducted a motor vehicle stop on Lacey Road in Forked River. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 40-year-old Brian W. Kelly of Vaughn Avenue, Forked River, for DWI. He was transported to police headquarters and processed. Brian Kelly received motor vehicle summonses for DWI, Reckless Driving, Failure to Maintain Lane, and Driving while Suspended. The vehicle he was driving was impounded pursuant to John’s Law.
•DUI with Accident – On Sunday, September 30, 2018, at 5:36 p.m., Officer Elton Copes responded to Parker Avenue and Oak Street in Forked River for a two-vehicle accident. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 42-year-old William T. Cordes, 3rd , of Oakwood Place, Forked River. He was transported to police headquarters and processed. William Cordes received motor vehicle summonses for DUI, Reckless Driving, Failure to Maintain Lane, and a Special Complaint Summons for Vehicular Assault. The vehicle he was driving was impounded pursuant to John’s Law.
•Criminal Mischief – On Saturday, September 29, 2018, at 1:10 a.m. Officer John McKee responded to police headquarters to take a report of criminal mischief to an auto. The complainant reported that between the hours of 5:45 p.m. and 10:25 p.m. on Friday, September 28, an unknown person(s) damaged his vehicle while it was parked in the rear parking lot of the Captain’s Inn on East Lacey Road in Forked River. The vehicle’s fender and driver-side door were scratched/keyed. The estimated value of the damage is over $500.