As we continue to fight this pandemic, the Lacey Township Police Department, and the Lacey Township Office of Emergency Management are urging our residents to remain vigilant against the spread of COVID-19 by conforming to the recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control.  The CDC emphasizes that maintaining 6-feet social distancing is important to slow the spread of the virus.  Additionally, and critically important, the use of face coverings will reduce the spread of the virus and help people who may have the virus and do not know it from transmitting it to others.

It is strongly suggested that our residents conform to the guidelines set forth by the CDC when visiting our grocery stores, pharmacies, take-out food establishments, and any other businesses that have been deemed essential.

Since N95 respirators and surgical masks might not be available, and should be reserved for healthcare workers and first responders, the CDC has suggested that any face covering, including bandanas, scarves, or other types of cloth material, be used to help slow the spread of COVID-19. The cloth material should be secured around a person’s mouth and nose area. Latex gloves are also highly recommended and should be disposed of in a garbage just prior to re-entering your vehicle after leaving the store.

Please be courteous to others while patronizing the stores in our community that are following strict guidelines.  The precautions set in place are there to help shoppers and store associates avoid any unnecessary exposure to the COVID-19

The CDC website contains useful information on how to make cloth face coverings. Residents are urged to visit https://www.cdc.gov/…/prevent…/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html for further information.

The Lacey Township Police Department will continue our efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19. We would appreciate if you would consider sharing this post to your friends and contacts.

Thank you,

-Chief Michael C. DiBella

Theft- On Thursday, April 2, 2020, at 10:14 a.m., Officer Jason Lee responded to Eric Plaza, 336 Lacey Road, in reference to a theft.  A business owner there reported that an unknown suspect cut the catalytic converter from his vehicle while it was parked in the lot.  The damage is estimated at $1,000.

Criminal Mischief- On Saturday, April 4, 2020, at 12:38 p.m., Officer Michael Hutman was dispatched to a Borealis Court home.  The homeowner reported that sometime over the prior three days, an unknown person forced entry into his home and damaged the rear door of his residence.  Nothing appeared stolen from inside.  The damage is estimated at $200.

Arrest- On Saturday, April 4, 2020, at 12:55 p.m., Officers Randolph Plis and Michael Hutman responded to a Lake Barnegat Drive residence in reference to a disturbance.  During their interactions with the caller, it was determined that Edward Heaton, 22, and Ashley Reynolds, 21, stole the victim’s debit card and withdrew $700.  Both Heaton and Reynolds were arrested and charged with Theft of a Credit Card and Fraudulent Use of a Credit Card.  Reynolds was released on her own recognizance while Heaton was transferred to the Ocean County Correctional Facility in accordance with bail reform.

Theft- On Saturday, April 4, 2020, at 5:46 p.m., Officer Michael Baldasari took a report for the theft of a guitar.  The Fox Hollow Drive resident reported that his Fender Telecaster, valued at $1,500, was stolen from his home during an unknown time frame.  No forced entry was observed.

Arrest- On Saturday, April 4, 2020, at 7:18 p.m., Officer Martin Julian and Anthony Ravallo encountered Jason McNab, 36, on Lake Barnegat Drive.  McNab was placed under arrest for an outstanding warrant and transported to the Ocean County Correctional Facility.  During the transport, McNab purposely coughed and spit inside the police vehicle leading to an additional charge of Obstructing.

Dispute- On Sunday, April 5, 2020, at 1:35 p.m., Officer Michael Verwey and Matthew D’Antonio responded to Lidl in reference to a physical dispute.  Once there, it was determined that two adult men had been involved in an altercation.  Both parties were advised of the complaint process.

Criminal Mischief- On Monday, April 6, 2020, at 11:31 a.m., Officer Michael Hutman responded to a Lacey Road office building for a report of criminal mischief.  The owner reported that sometime over the weekend someone utilized a small marble to break the outer pane of one of the building’s double pane windows.  Damage to the window is estimated at $200.

Fraud- On Monday, April 6, 2020, at 3:00 p.m., Officer Randolph Plis met with a Forked River resident who reported that she was a victim of identity fraud.  The victim stated that she was contacted by “getbread.com” in reference to payments owed.  During further conversation, it was determined that another person used the identity of the victim to purchase a laptop through the loan company.  The purchase was valued at $1,800.

Shoplifting- On Monday, April 6, 2020, at 7:15 p.m., Officers Anthony Ravallo and Brian Holt were dispatched to Wawa, 444 Route 9, in reference to a suspicious person.  The store manager reported that the woman, Melissa Kuchner, 51, had been inside the store for over an hour and was not wanted there any longer.  Officers advised Kuchner of the complaint and she was asked to leave.  Shortly thereafter, officers were requested again by Wawa stating that Kuchner was back inside the store.  Kuchner was charged with Trespassing and Shoplifting prior to being released on her own recognizance.

Robbery- On Tuesday, April 7, 2020, at 7:41 p.m., Officers Brian Holt and Martin Julian responded to the Lacey Inn for an injured adult male.  Upon arrival, officers met with the victim who had a head laceration and reported that he was robbed.  The victim provided a description of a male driving a vehicle with out-of-state plates who stole his unemployment card.  The victim further added that the suspect brandished a handgun that was stored inside the waistband of his pants.  Detective Ewart responded and is further investigating the incident.

Shoplifting- On Friday, April 10, 2020, at 10:01 a.m., Officers Matthew D’Antonio and Scott Anderson responded to Walmart for a report of a shoplifting incident that occurred earlier this date.  Loss prevention officers reported approximately $670 in diapers and baby furniture stolen by two unknown females.

Arrest- On Friday, April 10, 2020, at 11:53 a.m., Officers Matthew D’Antonio and Scott Anderson arrested Robert Charlie for outstanding warrants totaling $3,500.  Charlie was released on his own recognizance after satisfying bails set by the Brick and Jackson Township Municipal Courts.

Fire- On Saturday, April 11, 2020, at 1:43 p.m., Officers Andrew Slota and Alan Abrecht responded to Clearview Street for a report of a fire.  The fire apparently originated in bushes at the property line of two homes spreading to a vinyl fence and causing damage to one of the home’s siding.  The Forked River Fire Department and the Ocean County Fire Marshal responded.

DWI- On Saturday, April 11, 2020, at 8:54 p.m., police headquarters received a call of a male subject slumped over in his vehicle on Beach Boulevard. Officer Scott Keefe arrived and determined that the driver, David Dasilva, 61, was intoxicated. Dasilva was arrested and charged with DWI and Failure to Submit to Breath Samples.

Robbery- On Saturday, April 11, 2020, at 9:59 p.m., officers responded to the 7-Eleven, 524 Lacey Rd, for a report of a robbery. The employee reported that a white male wearing a mask had entered the store and demanded money from the register. The male displayed a hammer and smashed out the glass portion of the countertop. He then reached over the countertop, grabbing the cash register drawer prior to running from the store. Detective Ewart as well as the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department CSI unit and a K-9 unit responded to the scene.

Fraud- On Monday, April 13, 2020, at 9:58 a.m., Officer Randolph Plis took a report of fraudulent credit card activity.  A Forked River resident reported being contacted by EZ Pass in reference to an overdue account that he did not create.  The caller determined that a fraudulent account which accrued $600 was linked to his credit card by an unknown suspect.

DWI- On Monday, April 13, 2020, at 2:11 p.m., Officers Michael Verwey and John Simonson responded to 7-Eleven, 930 Lacey Road, after a caller reported an erratic driver.  Officer Verwey interviewed the driver, Lisa Benson, 45, of Manahawkin at which time she was placed her under arrest for DWI.  Benson was issued summonses for DWI and Reckless Driving.

DWI-   On Monday, April 13, 2020, at 5:39 p.m., Officers Bruce Carver and Michael Hutman responded to the Home Depot parking lot for a reported two-car accident.  Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of one driver, Jessica Linstra, 46, for DWI. Linstra was issued motor vehicle summons for DWI, Reckless Driving, and Careless Driving.

Burglary- On the afternoon of Tuesday, April 14, 2020, officers were requested at two separate homes on Eleanor Road.  Both residents reported that during the overnight hours, an unknown male suspect attempted to enter their locked vehicles.  On each of the home’s surveillance recordings, the same male suspect can be seen peering into the vehicles shortly after 2:30 a.m.  The video is being used in an attempt to identify the actor.

DWI- On Tuesday, April 14, 2020, at 5:01 p.m., Officers Randolph Plis and Brian Holt responded to a two-car motor vehicle accident at the intersection of Chestnut Street and Parker Avenue.  During the investigation, John O’Neill, 32, was placed under arrest for DWI.  O’Neill was charged with DWI, Reckless Driving, and Careless Driving.

DWI- On Wednesday, April 15, 2020, at 2:20 p.m., Officers Randolph Plis and Michael Verwey responded to 403 Sunrise Boulevard for a report of a vehicle striking a mailbox.  Investigation at the scene revealed that Jessica Linstra, 46, was the driver involved in the accident and was placed under arrest for DWI.  Linstra was charged with DWI, Reckless Driving, Failure to Maintain Lane, Failure to Report an Accident and Leaving the Scene of an Accident.

The Lacey Township Police Department is investigating numerous vehicle burglaries that occurred during the overnight hours between Sunday, April 19, 2020 and Monday, April 20, 2020.  Each of the vehicles were parked in driveways or in front of homes located in the Barnegat Pines portion of the township.  A variety of items were reported stolen from the unlocked vehicles including wallets, keys, clothing, electronics, and cash.

As a reminder, please ensure that your vehicles are locked when not occupied, especially during overnight hours.  Additionally, valuables should not be left inside your vehicles.

Anyone with information regarding the thefts or home surveillance video capturing possible suspects are urged to contact the Detective Bureau.

Fraud- On Thursday, April 16, 2020, at 3:24 p.m., Officer Jason Lee met with a Forked River resident regarding fraudulent activity.  The caller stated that she received notice from a bank in reference to her credit card application and approval.  The caller contacted the bank and advised them that she did not apply for a credit card.  The caller discovered further information that the card had been mailed to her but never received due to a hold that was placed on her mail apparently by the same suspect.

Fire- On Thursday, April 16, 2020, at 7:15 p.m., Officer Anthony Sarno responded to Alpine Street for a fire.  The caller reported that a grease fire originated in the gas grill and spread outside the grill and near the home.  Members of the Forked River Fire Department responded to assist.

Theft- On Saturday, April 18, 2020, at 11:22 a.m., Officer Jason Lee took a theft report from a Forked River resident.  The victim reported that lumber and an aluminum ladder were stolen from a job site on Calvin Street.  The theft occurred during an unknown time frame.

Harassment- On Saturday, April 18, 2020, at 12:15 a.m., Officer Michael Hein responded to Wawa, 701 Route 9, in reference to a verbal dispute.  Upon arrival, an Uber driver reported that after picking up a fare, the passenger refused to ride in the rear of the car.  The caller stated that he stopped in the parking lot and called police after the passenger became argumentative and was invading his space.  The caller was referred to the Lacey Municipal Court to pursue criminal complaints.

Theft- On Saturday, April 18, 2020, at 8:45 p.m., Officer Patrick Watkins took the report of a stolen bicycle.  The victim reported that an unknown person left a bicycle with a broken chain in her yard and stole her daughter’s mountain bike from the front porch of their Kenney Street home.  The bicycle is valued at $150.

Dispute- On Sunday, April 19, 2020, at 6:50 p.m., five officers were dispatched to the Lacey Inn for a physical altercation involving six people.  Officers arrived and separated two adult females involved in a physical fight.  Both actors were advised of the criminal Complaint procedure.  Several hours later, one of the females reported that she was attacked by an unknown male behind 7-11 on Route 9.  The female felt that the attack was in retaliation for the first event.  A description of the male was provided but could not be located.

Burglary- On the morning of Monday, April 20, 2020, officers took multiple reports of vehicle burglaries from residents of the Barnegat Pines.  Each victim reported that their vehicle(s) were entered during the overnight hours between Sunday and Monday.  Various items including wallets, clothing, electronics, and cash were stolen from the unlocked vehicles.  Many of the vehicles entered were parked at Elwood Street homes.

Please be aware that the following scam, or something similar, has recently been occurring state-wide.  The scam is primarily targeting the elderly.

An unknown suspect contacts the victim by phone identifying himself as an attorney.  The “attorney” explains that he has been retained by the victim’s grandson or granddaughter in light or their recent arrest.  The “attorney” further explains that the relative, whose name he will have obtained through the Internet, is being held at a correctional facility and is seeking a large amount of bail money for a serious offense.  After the victim agrees to provide the assistance, the “attorney” sends a suspect impersonating a bail bondsman to their home to retrieve the cash.

This scheme seems to be occurring in many New Jersey counties and should not be entertained at any point.  Should you receive a similar call, do not provide personal information or cash to anyone under these circumstances and report the matter to police.

As always, the Lacey Township Police Department urges our residents to be cognizant of scams and to avoid offers that seem to be too good to be true.

Thank you and be safe.

Arrest- On Thursday, April 23, 2020, at 11:40 a.m., Officers Randolph Plis and John Simonson responded to Sherwin Williams, 709 Route 9 North, for a report of a theft.   The manager reported that an Apple iPad was stolen from the store and suspected an employee.  Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the employee, Edmarie Alvarado, 29.  Alvarado was charged with Theft of Moveable Property and released on her own recognizance pending a Court appearance.  The theft was valued at $619.

Obstructing- On Friday, April 24, 2020, at 7:33 p.m., officers responded to a Buena Vista Road residence for a report of an unwanted guest.  While officers were on scene, the caller, Matthew Madelino, 29, began throwing items belonging to the visitor outside.  After being asked to stop by the officers, Madelino continued.  Officer Scott Keefe issued Madelino a summons for Obstructing the Administration of Law.

Arrest- On Saturday, April 25, 2020, at 9:36 p.m., Officers Robert Duffy and Patrick Watkins responded to the Lacey Inn for a report of a dispute.  While there, officers arrested Savannah Banks, 22.  During her arrest, Banks became uncooperative and spit at officers.  Banks was charged with Throwing Bodily Fluid at Police and lodged in the Ocean County Correctional Facility without bail.

Theft- On Monday, April 27, 2020, at 4:36 p.m., Officer Elton Copes took a report from the victim of a theft.  The caller reported that she is in the process of moving into a Hillside Drive residence.  During the move she noticed that various items had been stolen from her moving boxes.  The items are valued at $110.

Fraud- On Tuesday, April 28, 2020, at 4:03 p.m., Officer Bruce Carver met with a Forked River resident in reference to fraudulent activity.  The victim reported that she received a letter from Discover Card in reference to her recent application.  The victim contacted Discover and was told that an application was filed online using her name, date of birth, and social security number.

While we continue to remain humbled by the outpouring show of support from our community, we would like to recognize the Captain’s Inn, 304 E. Lacey Road, Forked River.

This past Sunday evening, the Captain’s Inn, provided dinner for our police officers and dispatchers.  We would like to extend our utmost gratitude to Debbie, and her staff, for their overwhelming support and kindness to the members of the Lacey Township Police Department. The Captain’s Inn continues to support our community during these difficult times and for that, we sincerely thank them. http://captainsinnnj.com

The members of the Lacey Township Police Department would like to say thank you to all of the teachers on National Teacher’s Day! Although your classrooms are now virtual, you have all continued to help our children grow in so many ways.  We are grateful for everything you do for our children.

Thank you!!

The members of the Lacey Township Police Department would like to take a moment to thank all of the nurses out there on National Nurses Day. What a perfect time to honor these heroes.

Thank you for everything you do!!

During the past few weeks, the Lacey Township Police Department has received numerous reports of car burglaries.  As a reminder, please ensure that your vehicles are locked when not occupied, especially during the overnight hours.  Additionally, valuables should not be left inside your vehicles.

Thank you.

MV Accident- On Thursday, April 30, 2020, at 4:00 p.m., officers responded to a wooded area near Eno’s Park in reference to an injury.  Officers discovered that two juveniles riding a quad lost control and collided with a tree.  Both victims were transported to hospitals for non-threatening injuries.

Arrest- On the afternoon of Friday, May 1, 2020, detectives arrested Jeni McDaniel in reference to a theft.  The case originated on March 15, 2020 when a Forked River resident reported losing her purse and wallet at TJ Maxx.  The investigation revealed that McDaniel was responsible for removing the purse and it’s contents from the store after finding it ultimately leading to her arrest.  In addition to the criminal charge of theft, McDaniel was wanted by three jurisdictions including Lacey, Trenton, and the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department for outstanding warrants.  The warrants totaled $6,000.  McDaniel was lodged in the Ocean County Correctional Facility.

DWI- On Saturday, May 2, 2020, at 8:25 p.m., Officer Scott Keefe conducted a motor vehicle stop on Challenger Way.  During the stop, the driver was determined to be under the influence and arrested.  Jonathan Laureigh, 22, was charged with DWI and Reckless Driving.

Dispute- On Sunday, May 3, 2020, at 3:46 p.m., Officer Alan Abrecht took a report involving an altercation.  The caller reported that he and his wife were threatened by three male subjects during a dispute over a traffic issue.  The matter is under further investigation.

DWI- On Sunday, May 3, 2020, at 10:01 p.m., Officers Patrick Watkins and Michael Hein responded to the Laurel Boulevard area for a possible dispute.  Officers located a vehicle suspected to be involved and made a motor vehicle stop on Lawrence Drive.  After further investigation, the driver, Ashlynn Kicki, was arrested for DWI.  Kicki, 26, was charged with DWI and Reckless Driving.

Attempted Burglary- On Monday, May 4, 2020, at 12:45 p.m., Officer Alan Abrecht met with a Forked River business owner who reported an attempted burglary at his business.  The victim reported that on Saturday, May 2^nd, a sole male suspect damaged his building and attempted to break in.  The footage was used to quickly identify the actor as a local juvenile.

Arrest- On Monday, May 4, 2020, at 1:53 p.m., dispatch received a call from employees of Chase Bank in reference to a threatening customer.  Bank staff reported that after the suspect left the drive thru, he came into the foyer and was threatening to kill the employees.  Officer Jason Lee arrived and witnessed the suspect, Thomas Vance, 41, driving recklessly from the parking lot.  During a traffic stop on Eagleswood Place, Vance was arrested for DWI.  Vance was ultimately charged with DWI, Reckless Driving, Terroristic Threats, and False Public Alarm.  Vance was transported to the Ocean County Correctional Facility in accordance with bail reform.

DWI- On Tuesday, May 5, 2020, at 6:50 p.m., officers along with the Forked River Fire Department responded to a reported motor vehicle accident on Route 9 near Oyster Creek.  The driver, Robert Ewan, apparently left the roadway striking a utility pole.  Ewan, who was uninjured, was placed under arrest after officers deemed he was under the influence. He was charged with DWI and Reckless Driving.

Threats- On Tuesday, May 5, 2020, at 9:04 p.m., Officer Patrick Watkins met with a Forked River resident in reference to threats.  The female caller stated that while walking on Conifer Drive she passed three men conversing in front of a residence.  As she passed, a comment was made toward her about not wearing a mask.  One of the men reportedly made a threatening gesture.  The men were identified and denied the allegation.

Burglary- On Tuesday, May 5, 2020, Officer Matthew D’Antonio took four separate reports in reference to vehicle burglaries.  Each victim, all who reside in the Oakfield section of Lanoka Harbor, reported that their unlocked vehicles were entered during the early morning hours of Monday, May 4^th.  Victims reported personal items and cash stolen.  Any residents in the area with information should contact Detective Brian Flynn.

Fire- On Wednesday, May 6, 2020, at 8:15 a.m., Officer Noah Schaffer and members of the Forked River Fire Department responded to a Commodore Drive home in reference to a fire.  A small fire that originated at the outside of the residence damaged the vinyl siding but no structural damage occurred.  The Ocean County Fire Marshal deemed the incident accidental.

Memorial Day Parade Cancelled – Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the New Jersey Executive Orders, the Lacey Township 2020 Memorial Day Parade and Bicentennial Park service have been cancelled. Lacey Township Veterans Commission Chairman Bernard Snyder advised they will be contacting all of the involved organizations to come up with a future date to hold the memorial services. If anyone has any questions for the Lacey Township Veterans Commission, please contact Bernard Snyder at 609-276-1775.

Thank you.

-Chief Michael C. DiBella

Scam Alert-Impersonating Law Enforcement

The Lacey Township Police Department is investigating a fraud scam involving the suspect(s) impersonating law enforcement officials.  The Lacey Township Police Department took a report from a victim who recently received an email, from what appeared to be a valid lender, informing the victim their loan application had been approved.  The victim had recently been seeking a loan and believed the email to be related.  The victim then called the purported loan officer, utilizing a telephone number provided in the email, and provided personal banking information.  The victim described the male suspect’s voice as having a middle-eastern accent.  The victim and suspect had contact numerous times via telephone regarding the loan.  The scam included money being deposited into the victim’s account and the victim having to make additional “good faith” payments.  This included western union payments and withdrawals from the victim’s bank account.

After realizing a scam was occurring, the victim stopped contact with the suspect and blocked their number.  The suspect then made contact with the victim, this time purporting to be a law enforcement official, and attempting to further the scam by threatening the victim with police action if they did not continue to allow themselves to be defrauded.  The suspect also “Spoofed” their telephone number, so it appeared the suspect was calling from an official law enforcement agency.  “Spoofing” is the act of disguising a communication from an unknown source as being from a known, trusted source.  Spoofing can apply to emails, phone calls, and websites, or can be more technical.

As always the public is urged to avoid scams and not provide any unknown and/or untrusted sources with personal information.  Furthermore, the Lacey Township Police Department advises all residents that if they are contacted by anyone representing themselves as a law enforcement official and they are unsure of the validity of their claim, they should end the call and contact the agency themselves utilizing the agency’s official contact information.  Additionally, residents may always visit Police Headquarters and/or can request a uniformed officer in a marked police vehicle respond to meet with them to ensure the proper identification is made.

*** Happy Mother’s Day ***

The members of the Lacey Township Police Department would like to wish all of you a Happy Mother’s Day.

Enjoy and have a great day!!

While we continue to remain humbled by the outpouring show of support from our community during the COVID-19 pandemic, we would like to recognize our local Walmart, 580 Route 9 North, Lanoka Harbor.

Earlier today (May 12, 2020) for National Police Week, members of the Lacey Walmart arrived at police headquarters with a substantial donation for the members of our agency. The items donated (pictured above) include, but were not limited to, disinfectant wipes, hand sanitizer, surgical masks, water, Gatorade and various protein bars.  We would like to extend our utmost gratitude to the staff at Walmart for their generous support to the members of the Lacey Township Police Department, during both National Police Week and the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Theft- On Friday, May 8, 2020, at 2:46 p.m., Officer Noah Schaffer met with a Forked River resident reporting theft.  The victim stated that his credit card was utilized by a suspect to forward $200 through a Money Gram app.  The case is under investigation.

DWI- On Friday, May 8, 2020, at 5:29 p.m., Officers Michael Baldasari and Brian Holt responded to Walmart for a report of a possible intoxicated driver.  Investigation at the scene revealed that Kathina Morgan, 51, was under the influence.  Morgan was placed under arrest and issued summonses for DWI and Reckless Driving.

Fire- On Saturday, May 9, 2020, at 4:29 p.m., Officers Brian Holt and Bruce Carver responded to a 911 call for a reported fire.  Officers arrived at the Rowe Street home and discovered an oven fire.  The Lanoka Harbor Fire Department arrived and assisted with the fire and ventilation.  Minor damage was sustained.

Pedestrian Struck- On Sunday, May 10, 2020, at 5:13 p.m., Officer Anthony Sarno responded to a Devon Street residence in reference to a pedestrian being struck by a vehicle.  The complainant, a 22 year-old female, alleged being struck by a small silver sedan while she was walking on Penn Avenue.  The victim suffered minor injuries.

Burglary- On Monday, May 11, 2020 at 9:08 a.m., Officer Alan Abrecht responded to a Crestwood Drive residence for a reported burglary.  A local realtor discovered that someone forced entry into the bank owned home on an unknown date.  The suspect caused damage estimated at $1,000.

Criminal Mischief- On Monday, May 11, 2020, at 10:23 p.m., Officer Patrick Watkins responded to a Pine Tree Drive residence for a report of criminal mischief to a vehicle. It was reported by the vehicle owner that an unknown person smashed out the windshield of his vehicle by throwing a landscape rock through it. The damage is estimated at $500.

Burglary- On Thursday, May 14, 2020, at 9:21 a.m., officers responded to Tony’s General Merchandise in reference to a burglary.  Upon opening, employees of the business found a glass door broken and a small amount of cash missing from inside.  Anyone with information pertaining to the incident is encouraged to contact the detective bureau.

Every May 15th Peace Officers Memorial Day pays tribute to local, state, and federal law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice or been injured in the line of duty. Please take a moment to remember the sacrifices these great men and women have made in order to protect and serve all of us.

Since 1927, 18 Ocean County Law Enforcement Officers have lost their lives in the line of duty. They include:

TROOPER FIRST CLASS JOSEPH A. SMITH
NEW JERSEY STATE POLICE
END OF WATCH: THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 1927

MARSHALL ARNOLD JOHNSON
POINT PLEASANT POLICE DEPARTMENT
END OF WATCH: SUNDAY, JULY 22, 1928

TROOPER LEONARD P. McCANDLESS
NEW JERSEY STATE POLICE
END OF WATCH: SUNDAY, JUNE 28, 1931

TROOPER JOHN J. RESSLER
NEW JERSEY STATE POLICE
END OF WATCH: SUNDAY, MAY 1, 1932

POLICE OFFICER HARTLEY RICHTER
LAKEWOOD POLICE DEPARTMENT
END OF WATCH: MONDAY, APRIL 8, 1946

TROOPER RAYMOND P. FIOLA
NEW JERSEY STATE POLICE
END OF WATCH: MONDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 1962

CHIEF ANGELO J. LEONETTI
LONG BEACH TOWNSHIP POLICE DEPARTMENT
END OF WATCH: TUESDAY, MARCH 6, 1962

POLICE OFFICER ROBERT T. TOBIAS
MANCHESTER TOWNSHIP POLICE DEPARTMENT
END OF WATCH: SATURDAY, MAY 17, 1975

POLICE OFFICER RICHARD J. HARPER
BRICK TOWNSHIP POLICE DEPARTMENT
END OF WATCH: THURSDAY, MAY 4, 1978

POLICE OFFICER LARRY DUNFEE
STAFFORD TOWNSHIP POLICE DEPARTMENT
END OF WATCH: MONDAY, APRIL 27, 1981

POLICE OFFICER JOHN J. LESEMANN
BRICK TOWNSHIP POLICE DEPARTMENT
END OF WATCH: MONDAY, AUGUST 30, 1999

POLICE OFFICER ROBERT J. VENTURA
JACKSON TOWNSHIP POLICE DEPARTMENT
END OF WATCH: SUNDAY, MARCH 18, 2001

POLICE OFFICER WILLIAM PRESLAR
LAKEWOOD POLICE DEPARTMENT
END OF WATCH: MONDAY, MAY 14, 2007

POLICE OFFICER JASON C. MARLES
OCEAN GATE POLICE DEPARTMENT
(END OF WATCH: THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2010)

POLICE OFFICER CHRISTOPHER A. MATLOSZ
LAKEWOOD POLICE DEPARTMENT
END OF WATCH: FRIDAY, JANUARY 14, 2011

DETECTIVE TINA E. RAMBO
OCEAN COUNTY PROSECUTOR’S OFFICE
END OF WATCH: MONDAY, AUGUST 1, 2011

DETECTIVE I JOHN SCOTT STEVENS
OCEAN COUNTY PROSECUTOR’S OFFICE
END OF WATCH: WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 2015

CORPORAL SCOTT R. THOMPSON
MANCHESTER TOWNSHIP POLICE DEPARTMENT
END OF WATCH: FRIDAY, APRIL 10, 2015

The above photo depicts Past State President Richard Bard (center) and Leading Knight JoAnn Crossley (right) from Lacey Elks Lodge #2518 on the evening of May 14, 2020, after making a generous food donation to the Lacey Township Police Department.

While we continue to remain humbled by the outpouring show of support from our community during the COVID-19 pandemic, we would like to recognize the Lacey Elks Lodge #2518, 900 Beach Blvd,  Forked River.

Last evening (May 14, 2020), for National Police Week, Past State President Richard Bard and Leading Knight JoAnn Croosley of the Lacey Elks Lodge #2518 arrived at police headquarters with a substantial donation of food for our police officers and dispatchers. We would like to extend our utmost gratitude to the Lacey Elks Lodge for their donation and generous support of the Lacey Township Police Department, during both National Police Week and the COVID-19 pandemic. The Lacey Elks Lodge continues to support and give back to our community through numerous projects, fundraisers, and donations. Thank you Lacey Elks Lodge for everything you do!!