*** Next Gille Park Skate Park Evening Event,  Tonight, June 7, 2019 ***

The next Gille Park Skate Park Evening Event, also known as “Friday Night Lights” will be held this evening, June 7, 2019, 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.

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

Warrant Arrest– At 7:45 pm, Friday, June 7, 2019, Officers Scott Keefe and Anthony Sarno responded to a Nantucket Road, Forked River home in reference to a dispute.  Officers located James Wareham on the porch of the home and it was determined that he was wanted for several outstanding warrants.  Wareham, 34, was placed under arrest for the warrants, both originating from Trenton, and transported to headquarters.

Drug Arrest– At 9:45 am, Saturday, June 8, 2019, Officers Simonson and Triano conducted a motor vehicle stop on Route 9 at Second Street.  During the stop, officers discovered a hypodermic syringe and placed the driver under arrest.  Richard Ferruccio, 25, of Ventnor, NJ, was later released on his own recognizance after being charged with Possession of a Hypodermic Syringe.

Attempted Burglary– On the morning of Saturday, June 8, 2019, Officer Simonson responded to a Jones Road, Forked River residence in reference to an attempted burglary.  The homeowner reported that unknown suspect(s) attempted to force entry into the rear door of his home.  A window screen was also damaged.  It did not appear the entry was made into the home.

Weapon Possession– At 3:45 am, Sunday, June 9, 2019, Officers Jesse Dalziel and Chris Meyler responded to a West Lacey Road home in reference to a suspicious person on the property.  As the officers approached, they observed a vehicle on the shoulder and four men in what appeared to be an argument.  As the officers neared the men, one man, David Most, was observed having a handgun in his waistband.  The investigation revealed that a Little Egg Harbor man was walking from a party in the woods and accidently exited onto Most’s property.  Most was alerted by home surveillance video and exited his home with the gun.  Most then followed the man off his property onto the roadway pointing the gun and ordering the man to lie on the ground.  A passerby stopped and urging Most not to continue.  The surveillance video confirmed that the lost man walked across Most’s property although no criminal offenses were noted.  David Most, 60, was placed under arrest and ultimately transported to the Ocean County Correctional Facility.  Most was charged with Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, and Aggravated Assault.

Theft– At 9:35 am, Sunday, June 9, 2019, a Loss Prevention Officer at Walmart reported cash missing from a register to Officer Randolph Plis.  Store surveillance video captured a female suspect making a purchase and then distracting the cashier.  During this time the suspect reached into the open cash drawer stealing an undetermined amount of money.  Attempts are being made to identify the actor.

Warrant Arrest – On Sunday, June 9, 2019, at 4:27 p.m., Officers Michael Verwey and Alan Abrecht responded to the Lacey Elks for a report of a female subject using the bathroom sink to wash her clothes.  The female, later identified as 38-year-old Michelle Mintchwarner, was located by officers.  Michelle was found to have two outstanding warrants and was placed under arrest.  Mintchwarner was later turned over to the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department in lieu of warrants generating from the Ocean County Superior Court and Stafford Municipal Court. 

Vehicle Fire – On Sunday, June 9, 2019, at 7:25 p.m., Officers Jason Lee and Jesse Dalziel responded to Route 539, at mile marker 18 for a vehicle fire.  Once on scene, officers located a fully involved SUV on a nearby trail.  Fire Departments, as well as the NJ Forest Fire Service responded to extinguish the fire.  The owner of Bensalem, NJ arrived on scene and reported that the vehicle was being driven off-road when it began having mechanical problems and was left there three hours earlier.  Detective Brian Flynn and the Ocean County Fire Marshal were summoned to the scene deeming the incident non-suspicious.

Suspicious Person– Just prior to midnight on Monday, June 10, 2019, Officers Jesse Dalziel and Brian Holt responded to the area of Independence Drive for a possible overdose in the street.  After searching the area, officers were unable to locate the individual.  One hour afterward, officers were again summoned to Nautilus Drive for a male subject lying in a driveway.  The subject, a 36 year-old Forked River man, was deemed to be intoxicated and transported to Community Medical Center for evaluation.

Suspicious Incident– On the morning of Sunday, June 11, 2019, a Forked River resident reported a suspicious incident to Officer Scott Anderson.  The caller reported that after not receiving mail for two days she contacted the Post Office and was told that her mail delivery was postponed for a week.  The adjustment was made electronically by someone other than herself.  The request also included that all the mail be picked up at the Post Office at the week’s end.  When the caller went to retrieve her mail she found a credit card in her husband’s name that was applied for fraudulently by an unknown suspect.

Dispute– At 1:28 am, Wednesday, June 12, 2019, officers were dispatched to the area of Circle Drive, Forked River after being advised of a dispute.  Upon arrival, officers met with two adult men who denied an altercation although one had a small laceration on his nose.  The two men refused to provide any further information regarding the matter.

On Tuesday, June 12, 2018, Officers Jason Lee and Jesse Dalziel were honored at the 2019 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.

The Lacey Township Walmart is providing Naloxone for free on June 18, 2019 at the Lacey Township store (580 Route 9 North, Lanoka Harbor).  This is a one day event only.  Anyone interested is advised to respond to the Lacey Township store for this life saving medication.

The above photos depict Lacey Township Police Officer Dimitrios Tsarnas being promoted to the rank of Police Sergeant during the June 20, 2019 Township Meeting. 

The Lacey Township Police Department is proud to announce the promotion of a veteran police officer. On the evening of Thursday, June 20, 2019 (last evening), during the Township meeting, Officer Dimitrios Tsarnas was promoted to the rank of Sergeant.

Sergeant Tsarnas began his law enforcement career in 1997 as a Class I Special Law Enforcement Officer for the Lacey Township Police Department. He attended the Ocean County Police Academy Special Law Enforcement Officer Training Academy and graduated in May 1998 with a certification as a Class II Special Law Enforcement Officer. He continued to work for the Lacey Township Police Department as both a Class II Special Law Enforcement Officer and Police Dispatcher.

In 1999 Sergeant Tsarnas briefly left the Lacey Township Police Department to begin a career as a Correction’s Officer. He worked for the New Jersey State Department of Corrections and then moved to the Ocean County Department of Corrections. While working as a Correction’s Officer, he was simultaneously employed as a Class II Special Law Enforcement Officer for the Barnegat Township Police Department.  Throughout his early career, Sergeant Tsarnas was constantly working to excel in his field and did not pass on any opportunities to better himself and his law enforcement career.

In December of 2000, Sergeant Tsarnas was re-hired by the Lacey Township Police Department as full-time police officer. For the majority of his 19 year career he has been assigned to the uniformed patrol division. In the summer of 2016 Sergeant Tsarnas was assigned as an Acting-Sergeant in charge of a patrol squad and remained in that position until February 2017. While in that position he displayed all the qualifications needed to be a leader and a supervisor, and proudly served the residents of Lacey Township. In the spring of 2017, Sergeant Tsarnas was assigned as a detective in the training bureau. Furthermore, for a period of one year, he was assigned to the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force.

Sergeant Tsarnas is a trained Drug Recognition Expert, Field Training Officer, and Firearms Instructor. He has led our department most years with the highest amount of DUI arrests. Sergeant Tsarnas has won multiple awards throughout his career related to Drunk Driving Enforcement, including but not limited to the Kimberley Smith Ames Award.

Sergeant Tsarnas is married to his wife Allison, and they have two children. He graduated from Lacey Township High School in 1991 and attended Ocean County College.

Congratulations on your promotion, well deserved!!

-Chief Michael C. DiBella

Last evening, (June 20, 2019) during the Township meeting, the Lacey Township Police Department honored five of our Police Detectives. Chief Michael C. DiBella and Lieutenant Christopher Cornelius honored Detectives Brian Flynn, Kymberly Gudgeon, Keith Pearce, Samuel Della Sala, and Adam Ewart with the Gallantry Star. The Gallantry Star Award is for the arrest of a person who is a major physical threat to the Community at Large.

The arrest stemmed from a Bank Robbery that occurred at the Kearny Bank, 630 Route 9 North in Lanoka Harbor, on May 29, 2019. A male suspect, dressed in dark clothing, approached the bank tellers and demanded money. The suspect fled on foot with a large sum of cash and entered a wooded area adjacent to the bank. After a thorough search of the area the suspect was not located.  During the days following the Kearny Bank robbery, all of the above Lacey Township Police Detectives worked tirelessly together to identify a suspect. Ultimately their investigation led to the identification of a suspect and a search warrant was issued.

On Thursday evening, June 6, 2019, the search warrant was executed at the Ocean Gate residence of the accused, Robert Fitzpatrick, Jr,. The search warrant led to the discovery of evidence and ultimately Fitzpatrick was arrested. In addition to the Kearny Bank robbery in Lacey Township, the investigation by the above detectives led to additional criminal charges against Fitzpatrick involving the robbery of Bank of America in Toms River on April 25, 2019, and the robbery of the Wells Fargo Bank on April 9, 2019 in Manchester Township.

The Lacey Township Police Department is extremely proud of these detectives for all of their hard work involving all three bank robberies.

Assisting agencies included the FBI, New Jersey State Police, the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department, the Ocean County Regional SWAT Team, the Toms River Township Police Department and the Ocean Gate Police Department. A sincere thank you to all of these assisting agencies.

-Chief Michael C. DiBella

Members of the Lacey Township Emergency Medical Services (Lanoka Harbor EMS) will be conducting a practice drill in the Lacey Township High School parking lot on Wednesday, June 26, 2019. Members of the Lacey Township Police Department will be observing the drill.  Additionally, the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department Communications Center has been made aware  of this training exercise.  The drill is expected to start at 6:00 p.m. and end by 7:00 p.m.

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 26, 2019. 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 Sergeant George Resetar., at 609-693-6636 ext. 2590.

Thank you.

– Chief Michael C. DiBella

DWI – At 7:39 pm, Friday, June 21, 2019, Officer Barcalow responded to the Walmart parking lot for a report of a male operating a vehicle erratically. Upon locating the vehicle she found it running with the door wide open and unoccupied. The driver, Nathan Kuncevich, 29, was located inside Walmart and appeared to be under the influence. Kuncevich, of Lanoka Harbor, was subsequently arrested and transported to headquarters.  Kuncevich was later released to a family member after being issued summonses for DWI, Reckless Driving, Failure to Notify MVC of an Address Change, and Leaving an Unattended Vehicle Running.

Warrant Arrest– At 8:50 pm, Friday, June 21, 2019, Officer Anthony Sarno was alerted by a Walmart loss prevention officer of a suspicious female.  The female reportedly appeared to be under the influence. Officer Sarno located the individual, Deanna Salafia, 31. A warrant check revealed three active warrants for her out of Asbury Park and Wall Township.  Salafia was arrested and later released on her own recognizance.

Fraud– At 9:40 am, Saturday, June 22, 2019, a Forked River resident filed a report with Officer Michael Hein in reference to identity theft.  The victim reported that while paying bills she discovered that her account had been overdrawn.  While speaking with the bank representative she discovered that an unknown person had altered her account information including the security questions.  Further investigation revealed that the victim’s MasterCard had been used to make several unauthorized purchases valued at $7,000.

Fraud– At 10:30 am, Saturday, June 22, 2019, a Lanoka Harbor resident reported that she was contacted by her mortgage company concerning a shortage in escrow.  The caller reportedly supplied the company with credit card information allowing an $800 transfer that was later deemed fraudulent.

Warrant Arrest– At 6:00 pm, Sunday June 23, 2019, Officer Anthony Sarno was dispatched to the North Dock to assist the New Jersey State Police Marine Bureau.  While conducting a routine check on the bay, Trooper Parker located two outstanding warrants for Kenneth Ward, Jr., 31, of Lanoka Harbor.  Ward was turned over to Officer Sarno and later posted $1,100 cash bail for warrants issued by Stafford and Lacey Township Municipal Courts.

Warrant Arrest– At 10:53 pm, Sunday, June 23, 2019, Officer Michael Baldasari conducted a motor vehicle stop after the vehicle failed to maintain the lane of travel.  During the stop it was discovered that the driver, Victor Ponaski, 29, of Toms River, was wanted by Toms River Township for two outstanding warrants.  Ponaski was arrested and transported to headquarters where he was later released on his own recognizance.

Shoplifting– At 4:36 pm, Monday, June 24, 2019, Officers Anthony Sarno and Dan Ricciardella were dispatched to Walmart in reference to shoplifters in custody.  Loss prevention officers reported that they observed the individuals removing items from the packaging and concealing it.  Officers arrested Jason Klink, 19, and Julia Sanzari, 19, both of Forked River.  Each was charged with Shoplifting and released pending a Court appearance.  The theft was valued at $94.02.

Theft-At 4:55 pm, Tuesday, June 25, 2019 Officer Brian Holt responded to a Constitution Drive home for the theft of an outdoor grill.  The victim reported that unknown person(s) stole his barbecue grill, valued at $850, from the front yard of his residence on the afternoon of the report.

Vehicle Fire – At 8:35 pm, Tuesday, June 25, 2019, Officers Jason Lee and Brian Holt were dispatched to the area of Lacey Road and Good Luck Road for a vehicle on fire, as well as the surrounding woods.  Upon arrival, it was determined that the vehicle was stuck on the frame and had caught fire.  The driver reported that his vehicle had become stuck and during the course of trying to remove it, the engine caught fire.  Bamber Lake Fire Department and the New Jersey State Forest Fire Service responded and extinguished the fire.  Lacey Township EMS transported the car’s driver to the hospital for minor burns to his hands.  The Ocean County Fire Marshal responded to the scene and deemed the fire non-suspicious.

Fire– At 1:40 pm, Wednesday, June 26, 2019, Officer Jeff Slota and Special Officer Austin Deane were dispatched to Walmart for the report of a fire.  Upon their arrival, they discovered that a small fire had originated in one of the aisle freezers.  The fire had already been extinguished by an off-duty fireman who was shopping in the store.  The store was closed temporarily while the Ocean County Health Department inspected the extent of the damage.  The Lanoka Harbor Fire Department also responded.

Township News – (Fireworks Event) – The Lacey Township fireworks display is scheduled for Wednesday, July 3, 2019, at dusk (rain date is Friday, July 5, 2019). 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 enjoy this event.

-Lacey Police-

Warrants- At 9:56 pm, Saturday, June 29, 2019, Officer Scott Keefe conducted a motor vehicle stop leading to the arrest of the driver, Janet Canelo-Rozas, 32.  Canelo-Rozas, of Piscataway, New Jersey, was wanted by the Dunellen Borough Municipal Court for failure to appear for a traffic violation.  Canelo-Rozas was released on her own recognizance pending a Court appearance.

Suspicious Incident- Shortly after midnight, Sunday, June 30, 2019, Officer Chris Meyler responded to the intersection of Route 9 and Sunrise Boulevard for a suspicious vehicle.  The caller reported that the male driver appeared under the influence.  The vehicle was located on Cabot Street and was unoccupied.  Several hours later, the owner of the vehicle, a Barnegat resident, made contact with police reporting that he was assaulted as he left his apartment in Barnegat.  The victim could not recall coming to Lacey and exhibited signs of an assault.  Barnegat Police took over the investigation and impounded the vehicle as evidence.

Illegal Dumping- On Monday, July 1, 2019, at 08:23 a.m., Officer John Simonson responded to the area of Dover Road at the Berkeley Township border for a report of a camper abandoned on the side of the road. Officer Simonson located an older model Winnebago-style motor home with no identifying tags and no motor on the side of the roadway. Officer Simonson discovered tire impressions in the sand indicating that the motor home had been towed to the location to be abandoned.

Criminal Mischief– On Monday, July 1, 2019, at 09:23 a.m., Officer Nick responded to the rail trail for a report of criminal mischief. The new rail trail construction off Warren Avenue sustained damage to a concrete post and rail fence.

Warrant- At 1:24 pm, Monday, July 1, 2019, Officer Nick conducted a motor vehicle stop on Lacey Road after witnessing the driver using a cell phone.  During the stop, Officer Nick discovered that the driver, Stacy Emmets, 48, of Pine Beach, had a suspended driver’s license.  Further inquiry revealed that the Toms River Municipal Court had issued a warrant for Emmets after she failed to appear for a Court appearance.  During Emmets’ arrest, Officer Nick found her to be in possession of Suboxone and marijuana without a valid prescription.  Emmets was charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possessing a Controlled Substance in a Motor Vehicle, Driving While Suspended, and Use of a Cellular Phone While Driving.  Emmets was released on her own recognizance after posting $500 cash bail for the Toms River warrant.

Shoplifting– At 4:19 pm, Monday, July 1, 2019, Officers Michael Hein and Dan Ricciardella were dispatched to Walmart after a male subject fled the store during a shoplifting.  Prior to their arrival, officers were advised that the subject had returned to the store’s vestibule and threw the stolen charging cable back inside.  Officer John McKee discovered the suspect, Ryan Territo, 27, walking nearby.  During Territo’s arrest, officers discovered a hypodermic syringe in his pocket.  Territo was charged with Shoplifting and Possession of a Hypodermic.  He was transferred to the Ocean County Correctional Facility in accordance with bail reform.

Car Burglary- During the afternoon hours of Tuesday, July 2, 2019, Officers Julie Barcalow and Anthony Sarno responded to Gille Park for a report of several vehicles that were broken into. A total of four vehicles’ windows were shattered and items were stolen. It appears that the suspect(s) only broke into the vehicles with purses or wallets that could be seen from the outside.

DWI with Accident- At 11:43 pm, Tuesday, July 2, 2019, several officers responded the intersection of Route 9 and Beach Boulevard for a reported two-car accident with injuries. It was determined that a vehicle driven by Zachary Campbell, 23, of Bayville, turned onto Route 9 from Beach Boulevard into the path of a second vehicle traveling south on Route 9 causing a head on collision. The female driver of the second vehicle, a 37 year-old Lacey resident, sustained head injuries.  Her male passenger, 32, of Beachwood, suffered serious injuries to his lower extremities.  Both were transported by ambulance to Jersey Shore Medical Center. Campbell was uninjured, however he was determined to be intoxicated and subsequently arrested and charged with Driving While Intoxicated and Reckless Driving.  Additional criminal charges are pending further investigation.  Detectives from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Officer assisted with the investigation.

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

**  Gille Park Skate Park Evening Event for Tonight, (Saturday), July 6th, 2019 Has Been Cancelled **

The next Gille Park Skate Park Evening Event, also known as “Friday Night Lights” will be held on Friday, August 2, 2019 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.

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,

-Lacey Police-

DWI – On Thursday, July 4, 2019, at 6:00 p.m., officers responded to the Taylor Lane Wawa for a report of a possible dispute.  Further investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 65-year-old Kenneth Vanness for DWI.  He was transported to headquarters where he received motor vehicle summonses for DWI, Reckless Driving, and Expired Registration.

DWI – On Friday, July 5, 2019, at 12:07 a.m., Officer Jesse Dalziel conducted a motor vehicle stop in a commercial parking lot on Route 9 after a concerned citizen reported a possible intoxicated driver.  Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the driver, 60-year-old Charles Pettinelli of Freehold.  He received motor vehicle summonses for Reckless Driving and DWI.

DWI– At 1:13 a.m., Saturday, June 6, 2019, Officer Michael Baldasari conducted a traffic stop on Lacey Road near the Railroad Avenue Extension.  The stop was made after a computer inquiry revealed that the vehicle’s registration was expired.  Further investigation at the stop led to the arrest of the driver, Dylan Brandsema, 23, of Forked River.  Brandsema was issued summonses for DWI, Reckless Driving, Expired Registration, and Expired Insurance Card.

Suspicious Incident — On Sunday, July 7, 2019, at 4:31 p.m., Police Communications received a 911 call from Ocean County Sherriff’s Department. The anonymous complainant reported by text message that there was a male with a gun holding his girlfriend in the residence against her will at a Chestnut Drive, Lanoka Harbor home. Upon arrival, officers established a perimeter to contain the incident and safeguard surrounding residents. Adjacent homeowners were advised to shelter in place away from adjacent windows until contact could be made to determine the extent of the incident. Communications within the residence were attempted with negative results. As the investigation continued, information was obtained that the couple might be at a Toms River residence rather than the Lanoka Harbor home.  The couple was located at a Toms River home uninjured.

Warrant Arrest- At 11:39 p.m., Monday, July 8, 2019, Officer Watkins stopped a vehicle on Lakeside Drive for speed.  A computer inquiry revealed that the driver, Andrew Steitz, 20, of Forked River, had an active warrant for his arrest. The warrant was issued by Tredyffrin Township, Pennsylvania for possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia. Andrew was arrested and transported to the Ocean County Correctional Facility where he is awaiting an extradition hearing.

Arrest- On the evening of Tuesday, July 9, 2019, a Deerhead Lake Drive resident reported that her vehicle, a 2015 Chevrolet Traverse, was taken by a relative without her permission on more than one occasion.  Upon returning the vehicle, Edward Heaton, 22, of Forked River was charged with Taking a Means of Conveyance Without Consent.  Heaton was lodged in the Ocean County Correctional Facility in accordance with bail reform.

Trespassing- At 11:43 a.m., Wednesday, July 10, 2019, Officer Michael Hein responded to a Baldwin Street, Forked River home in reference to a suspicious incident.  Property owners reported that their vacant home appeared to have been entered in their absence.  Once inside, it was evident that unknown persons were living in the house and left belongings behind including clothes and bedding.  Neighbors reported witnessing two unknown men leaving the home prior to the officer’s arrival.

Burglary- At approximately 3:30 p.m., Wednesday, July 10, 2019, an Elwood Street, Forked River resident reported two suspicious males in the street.  Shortly afterward, the caller made a second call to police reporting that one of the males had entered the home across the street and now hears a woman screaming.  Officer Michael Hutman arrived and witnessed a male suspect running from the home.  Officer Hutman’s attention was given to a resident of the home who was injured by the known assailant.  Dsg. Robert Surtees located the suspect, Shaddiy Whittacker, 29, walking nearby on Harrison Avenue.  Whittacker was placed under arrest and charged with Burglary, Aggravated Assault, Criminal Mischief, and Resisting Arrest.   Whittacker was lodged in the Ocean County Correctional Facility without bail.

CDS Arrest- At 3:40 p.m., Wednesday, July 10, 2019, Officer Simonson was dispatched to a Route 9 convenience store for a suspicious male inside a vehicle.  Officer Simonson located the driver, Jeffrey Ackerman, 27.  Further investigation revealed that Ackerman was in possession of empty wax folds and a hypodermic syringe indicative of heroin use.  Ackerman was arrested and charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Possession of a Hypodermic Syringe.

CDS Arrest- On Wednesday, July 10, 2019 at 10:27 p.m., Officer Anthony Sarno conducted a traffic stop near the Lacey Mall.  During the stop, Officer Sarno discovered that the driver, Stephen Cunningham, 30, of Staten Island, New York, had three outstanding traffic warrants issued by Perth Amboy and Woodbridge Municipal Courts.  Cunningham also possessed an amount of marijuana and paraphernalia.  Cunningham was arrested and charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Possessing a Controlled Substance in a Motor Vehicle.  Stephen Cunningham was released pending a Court appearance after his warrants were satisfied.

The above photo depicts (left to right) Lacey Township Mayor Timothy McDonald, Lanoka Harbor Fire Company President Edward Barker, Forked River Firefighter Edward Barker, Jr., and Police Chief Michael C. DiBella, during the July 11, 2019 Lacey Township meeting. The police department recognized the efforts of both men related to a December 2018 water rescue.

On the morning of December 15, 2018, Lanoka Harbor Fire Company President Edward Barker and his son, Forked River Firefighter Edward Barker, Jr., were at their residence in Lacey Township when they heard the police department being dispatched to the Mill Pond on Parker Avenue in Forked River, for a report of a vehicle submerged into the water with persons entrapped. Without hesitation both of these men left their residence and responded directly to the lake where they observed the vehicle submerged approximately 50 feet in from the shoreline. They also observed at least one occupant in the vehicle.  Both men entered the frigid water and made their way to the vehicle. Edward Barker, Jr., assisted the 18 year-old driver out of the vehicle through the sunroof and also ensured the vehicle did not contain any additional occupants. Edward Barker, Jr., and his father, Edward Barker,  assisted the driver back to the shore without injury.

The 200 Club of Ocean County also honored both of these men this past June for the December 2018 water rescue. They each received the Valor Award.

I would like to thank both of these men for their hard work and dedication to the community and their respective fire departments.

Thank you,

Chief Michael C. DiBella

The Ocean County Police Chiefs Association and 23 of its member agencies have entered into an agreement to conduct a centralized testing process.  The results from this exam will be used for the selection process for entrance into the Ocean County Police Academy Alternate Route Certification Program .  Additionally, 22 Ocean County Police Departments will also use the results from this exam to fill current and anticipated vacancies for full-time and/or Special Law Enforcement Officer positions.  Lacey Township Police Department will be utilizing this process when hiring part-time Special Law Enforcement Officers only, as we are a Civil Service Police Department and must follow the CSC guidelines (http://www.state.nj.us/csc/seekers/jobs/announcements/) when hiring officers for full-time police department positions.

Testing Date and Location: July 27, 2019 at Toms River High School North

For information on how to register for the Alternate Route Certification Program click on link: http://www.PoliceApp.com/OCPCA

On Monday, July 15, 2019 at 8:30 a.m., 25 eighth grade students began the Lacey Township Police Department’s Junior Police Academy.  The four-day event allows the recruits to conduct a mock homicide investigation while in a police academy setting.  Some of today’s activities included crime scene processing, evidence collection and witness interviews.  The day ended with a five-event physical training competition.  A special thanks to the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department for their K-9 demonstration and the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office for their participation.

• Warrant Arrest – On Thursday, July 18, 2019, at 6:00 p.m., Officer Anthony Sarno was patrolling the area of Arient Road in reference to a suspicious person.  The subject identified as 39-year-old, Jason M. Close of Jay Street, Forked River was found to have an outstanding Lacey Township Municipal warrant in the amount of $600.  He was arrested and transported to the police station for processing where he was released on his own recognizance.
• Fraud – On Thursday, July 18, 2019, at 2:04 p.m., Officer Darrell Nick responded to the 1700 block of Anchorage Way in Forked River for a victim complaint of attempted fraud. The victim advised Officer Nick that he received a phone call from from the U.S. Marshall’s Service (Glan Smith) advising him that his social security number was compromised.  He requested that the victim respond to a local store and use one of his credit cards to buy gift cards in order to track his social security number.  The complainant felt that this subject did not appear to be legitimate and notified the police of the incident.
• Fraud/Identity Theft – On Wednesday, July 17, 2019, at 5:23 p.m., Officer John McKee responded to police headquarters for a victim complaint of identity theft. The victim advised Officer McKee that unknown person(s) used his social security number to open up a TJ MAXX account along with a Best Buy account.  The suspect was able to charge a $1,300 Apple computer on the Best Buy account.  The suspect also attempted to purchase a $15,000 jet ski from a Pennsylvania dealership.  The victim was alerted by a fraud detection specialist and the transaction did not go through.
• Warrant Arrest – On Wednesday, July 17, 2019, at 4:01 p.m., Officer Jeffrey Slota responded to police headquarters for a subject being turned over by the NJSP with multiple outstanding warrants. The subject, 65-year-old, Albert Rentas of Ridgemont Drive in Lanoka Harbor was processed on four outstanding traffic warrants out of Carteret, Toms River, Berkeley Township and Middletown Township totaling $4,250.  He was also processed on an outstanding Lacey Township no bail warrant for fraud and taken to Ocean County Correctional Facility in lieu of bail.
• Theft – On Tuesday, July 16, 2019, at 5:28 p.m., Officer Daniel Ricciardella responded to the 2000 block of Brookdale Park Drive in Forked River for a report of a Theft. The caller reported that blank checks previously stolen had recently been cashed.  This incident remains under investigation.
• Theft – On Tuesday, July 16, 2019, at 5:24 p.m., Officer Michael Hein responded to the 1300 block of Leguene Avenue in Forked River for a report of a theft. The caller reported that their front license plate was removed from their vehicle along with an EZ pass tag that was attached to the plate.
• Illegal Dumping – On Monday, July 15, 2019, at 7:21 a.m., Officer Darrell Nick responded to the area of Lacey Road near Carriage Road for a report of Illegal Dumping. The caller reported that an unknown vehicle dumped large amounts of construction debris near Double Trouble Road.  A work order was sent to DPW to pick up the debris.
• Burglary – On Sunday, July 14, 2019, at 9:48 a.m., Officer Jeffrey Slota responded to the Signature Barber Shop (336 lacey Road) in reference to a burglary.  The rear door of the building had been forced open sometime overnight and unknown person(s) entered the building.  Two locked register drawers were opened and $4,200 in cash was stolen.  This incident remains under investigation.
• Warrant Arrest – On Saturday, July 13, 2019, at 12:57 a.m., Officer Jesse Dalziel conducted a motor vehicle stop near Route 9 and Sunrise Boulevard for maintenance of lamps. The driver, 29-year-old Victor S. Ponaski of 1807 Iger Way, Bayville, was found to be driving while suspended and also had an outstanding Ocean County Sheriff’s Department warrant in the amount of $1,630.  Further investigation led to the arrest of the passenger, 32-year-old Adam Ponaski of 1807 Iger Way, Bayville for two outstanding warrants out of Toms River ($500) and Upper Township ($500).  Adam Ponaski was also found to be in possession of a hypodermic needle used to inject CDS.  Both suspects were arrested, processed and transported to Ocean County Correctional Facility in accordance with bail reform.
• Fraud – On Saturday, July 13, 2019, at 9:01 a.m., Officer Alan Abrecht responded to the police department to meet with a victim of a fraud. The victim provided a credit card (Bank of America) statement with $672.77 in fraudulent charges. The victim advised Officer Abrecht that he observed the improper charges on his credit card and cancelled the account.  The transactions occurred out of Fort Myers, Florida.
• Fire (House) – On Friday, July 12, 2019, at 11:43 p.m., Officer Brian Holt and Sergeant George Resetar responded to the 1900 block of Glen Oak Drive in reference to a house fire. The fire caused minimal damage and appeared to have started in an outdoor light fixture.
• Theft – On Friday, July 12, 2019, at 7:21 p.m., Officer Michael Verwey responded the 1200 block of Taylor Lane for a theft report. The victim advised Officer Verwey that she was missing checks and a gold necklace from her residence.  The items stolen were valued at approximately $82.00.  The victim believes that the items were stolen by someone known to her.
• Illegal Dumping – On Friday, July 12, 2019, at 12:25 p.m., Officer Michael Verwey responded to 820 Municipal Lane in Forked River for a report of Illegal Dumping.  The caller reported that a vehicle dumped rotten food in cans in the recycling center.  The items were removed by the subject.

Trespassing- At 5:55 p.m., Thursday, July 18, 2019, Officer Michael Baldasari responded to Walmart in reference to a trespasser.  Officer Baldasari discovered that Rachel Jackson, 28, of Little Egg Harbor was on the premise and was given a no trespass order several years ago during a shoplifting incident. She was issued a Special Complaint Summons for defiant trespass and ordered to leave the property.

DWI – On Saturday, July 20, 2019, at 1:40 a.m., Officer Jason Lee conducted a motor vehicle stop at the intersection of Beach Boulevard and Chesapeake Drive for speeding.  The driver, 29-year-old Kevin Miller of Manahawkin, was later arrested for DWI.  Miller received summonses for Speeding, Reckless Driving and DWI.

Burglary- At 8:13 a.m., Sunday, July 21, 2019, Officer Andrew Slota took the report of a burglary to a vacant home.  A property management company representing the mortgage holder reported that a wood burning stove had been stolen from the home since their last visit.  The company could not provide specific information as to the value or the time of the theft.

Arrest – On Sunday, July 21, 2019 at 9:40 p.m., 23-year-old Amber Thomas arrived at police headquarters voluntarily for an outstanding warrant.  Officer Jason Lee took custody of her and processed the warrant.  She was later released after satisfying the South Toms River Municipal Court warrant.

Municipal Ordinance Violation– On Sunday, July 21, 2019, at 8:19 p.m., Officer Martin Julian responded to the second lake regarding people using the Wibit after hours.  The two adult females, 28-year-old Cynthia Ortiz of Toms River and 18-year-old Heather Wicks of Englewood, Florida, were both issued special complaint summonses.

Shoplifting- On Monday, July 22, 2019, at 11:31 a.m., Officer Michael Verwey responded to Walmart for a reported shoplifting.  Once there, it was determined that the suspect, Hozaifa Ahmed, 27, of Seaside Heights, N.J., attempted to conceal items valued at $64.77.  Ahmed was arrested and charged with Shoplifting prior to being released on his own recognizance.

Arrest- On Monday, July 22, 2019, at 2:24 p.m., Detective Kymberly Gudgeon arrested Peter Ciminello of Laurence Harbor, NJ for outstanding warrants.  The warrants, totaling $1,100, were issued by the Sayreville and South Amboy Courts.  Ciminello was released pending a future court date after satisfying the warrants.

Fires- At 2:35 p.m., Tuesday, July 23, 2019, Officer John McKee responded to Hebrew Park after Department of Public Works employees discovered a fire in the women’s bathroom.  A plastic garbage can appeared to have been set on fire and completely consumed.  It further appeared that a second fire had been lit in similar fashion inside the men’s bathroom but had self-extinguished without damage.  Lacey Detective Kymberly Gudgeon and the Ocean County Fire Marshal’s Office are investigating the matter.

Burglary- Shortly after 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, July 23, 2019, a Lacey Township resident reported that his vehicle was entered while it was parked in a Lacey Road commercial lot.  Once inside the vehicle, the suspect(s) stole a wallet containing credit cards and nearly $400 cash.

Fires- On Wednesday July 24, 2019, at 5:51 a.m., Officer Darrel Nick responded to a Chelsea Street, Forked River residence for a reported fire on the side of the home.  The homeowners extinguished the fire prior to police arrival; however, smoke was billowing from the attic of the residence.  The Forked River Fire Department arrived on scene and vented the attic.  The fire appeared to have been contained to the exterior of the home.  The Ocean County Fire Marshal responded as did a member of the detective bureau.  The incident does not appear suspicious.

Drug Arrest- At 3:50 p.m., Friday, July 26, 2019, Lacey detectives along with patrol officers executed a search warrant at a Station Drive, Forked River residence.  During a search of the property, eight marijuana plants and drug paraphernalia were located.  Tristin Scheiner, 22, was placed under arrest and charged with Possession of over 50 Grams of Marijuana, Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Obstructing the Administration of Law, and a Title 9 offense for child abuse.  Scheiner was released from custody in accordance with bail reform.  Detectives were assisted by members of the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office and the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department.    

Fire- At 7:20 p.m., Saturday, July 27, 2019, Officer Jason Lee was dispatched to East Lacey Road, Forked River for an in-water boat fire.  The fire was extinguished prior to officer arrival and caused minimal damage to the boat.  Further investigation was conducted by the New Jersey State Police.

Theft– At 1:00 a.m., Monday, July 29, 2019, an Ocean Gate resident reported to Officer Martin Julian that while his vehicle was parked in front of 426 Devon Street, Forked River items were stolen from it. The victim reported that a Cummings engine lift, a cast iron stove, and six steel tow chains were stolen out of the bed. The items, valued at $1,500, were removed from the truck between July 20^th and the time of the report.

Arrest– At 3:45 a.m., Monday July 29, 2019, Berkeley Township Police arrested a 26 year-old female, Ruthanne Gilchrist, on an outstanding Lacey Township warrant.  Officer Martin Julian took custody of Gilchrist and transported her to the Ocean County Correctional Facility in default of $1,000 bail.

MV Accident– At 7:00 p.m., Monday, July 29, 2019, Officer Elton Copes responded to a two-car accident on Beach Boulevard, Forked River.  It appeared that a vehicle driven by a Toms River resident failed to stop at the intersection of Chesapeake Drive and collided with another vehicle driven by a Pennsylvania resident.  Three occupants of the vehicles were transported to the hospital for minor injuries.

Criminal Mischief– At 7:42 a.m., Tuesday, July 30, 2019, Officer Alan Abrecht responded to a Center Street, Forked River residence in reference to criminal mischief.  The resident reported that unknown actors smashed the window of his vehicle during the overnight hours.  The damage was valued at $500.

Shoplifting– At 9:45 a.m., Tuesday, July 30, 2019, Officer Chris Meyler responded to Walmart for a reported shoplifting.  During the investigation, Officer Meyler placed Dillon Dittonhofer under arrest for concealing merchandise valued at $132.  Dittonhofer was charged with shoplifting and released pending a Court appearance.

Assist Other Agency– At 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, July 31, 2019, Officer Michael Baldasari responded to the Lacey Elks for a  submerged boat. Hazmat and the fire department were also contacted due to gas leaking from the boat. NJSP arrived and resumed the investigation. 

Fire- At 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, July 31, 2019, Officer Julie Barcalow responded to a Fairview Lane, Forked River residence after the report of a lightning strike and the smell of smoke. The fire department arrived and located the fire below the gas fireplace on the first floor. It was determined that lightning struck the second floor fireplace and traveled down the gas pipe causing the wood below the 1^st floor fireplace to catch fire. The Ocean County Fire Marshal responded to the scene ruing the fire accidental.