Weekly Police Blotter

January 5th, 2016 thru January 11th, 2016

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• Drug Possession and DUI (Arrest) – On Saturday, January 9, 2016, at 10:43 p.m. Officer Daniel Ricciardella and Officer Christopher Meyler responded to Oxford Road for a report of a suspicious vehicle. Upon arrival, the officers observed a Pontiac Grand Am that had hit a curb causing the passenger side tires of the vehicle to go flat. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the driver, 40-year-old Keith R. Sheedy of Weehaken Avenue in Forked River, NJ, for DUI. Keith Sheedy also had an outstanding Stafford Township Municipal Court warrant in the amount of $500 and was found to be in possession of 28 wax folds of Heroin. Keith Sheedy was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where he was processed and charged with Possession of Heroin, DUI, Reckless Driving, Driving While Suspended, Leaving the Scene of an Accident, Failure to Report an Accident, and Littering. Bail was set at $2,500 by Judge Damian Murray for the Possession of Heroin. Keith Sheedy was transported to the Ocean County Correctional Facility in default of bail. The vehicle he was driving was impounded pursuant to John’s Law.

• Shoplifting and Drug Possession (Arrest) – On Thursday, January 7, 2016, at 2:43 p.m., Officer Kymberly Gudgeon responded to Home Depot, 244 Route 9 North in Forked River, for a report of shoplifting. The asset protection employee reported that she observed a male subject take items off the shelves and then conceal them inside his jacket. The subject then attempted to leave the store without paying for the items. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 53-year-old James J. Charles of Lawrence Drive in Lanoka Harbor for stealing 8 items with a total value of $193.65. James Charles was also found to be in possession of a small clear plastic baggie containing Marijuana. James Charles was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where he was processed and charged with Shoplifting and Possession of Marijuana.

• Warrant Arrest – On Monday, January 11, 2016, at 6:56 p.m. Officer Jason Lee and Officer Anthony Sarno responded to a Lakeside Drive North residence in Forked River in reference to serving arrest warrants on 26-year-old Kyle Ranghelli of 942 Lakeside Drive North in Forked River. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of Kyle Ranghelli on two Borough of Seaside Heights Municipal Court warrants. One warrant was in the amount $759 and the other warrant was in the amount of $451. Kyle Ranghelli was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where he was processed and then transported to the Ocean County Correctional Facility in default of the bail.

• Theft – On Monday, January 11, 2016, at 11:15 a.m., Officer John Simonson responded to a Daytona Road residence in the Forked River Beach section of the township for a report of a theft. A representative from All County Exteriors reported that on January 7, 2016, an unknown person or persons stole AZEK trim that was on a pallet in the front yard of the residence. The stolen property is valued at $660.

• Traffic Stop & Warrant Arrest – On January 11, 2016, at 9:31 a.m., Officer Christopher Meyler stopped a vehicle on Lacey Road near the intersection of Trenton Avenue in Forked River. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the driver, 25-year-old Nicole E. Lugo of Lee Way in Forked River, on an outstanding Toms River Township Municipal Court warrant in the amount of $500. Nicole Lugo was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where she was processed and then turned over to the custody of the Toms River Township Police Department.

• Attempted Burglary of Garage – On Sunday, January 10, 2016, at 2:00 p.m., Officer Christopher Meyler responded to Orchard Street in Lanoka Harbor. The homeowner reported that 3:57 p.m. on January 8, 2016, he received an alarm alert on his cell phone from his alarm company indicating that someone had entered his home. He cancelled the dispatch of police to his residence believing it was possibly another household member. The homeowner reported that he was not aware of damage to a door until January 10, 2016, when he noticed damage to the side entrance door of the garage. The door appeared to have been pried open with a metal object. No items were reported stolen. The damage to the door is estimated at $200.

• Warrant Arrest – On Friday, January 8, 2016, at 3:33 p.m., Officer Christopher Meyler conducted a motor vehicle stop on Plover Court in Lanoka Harbor. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of a passenger, 25-year-old Keith C. Sisler of 209 Sinclair Avenue in Lanoka Harbor on an outstanding, no-bail, Camden County Sheriff’s Department Probation Warrant. Keith Sisler was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where he was processed and then transported to the Ocean County Correctional Facility in default of the bail.

• Open Burning – On Thursday, January 7, 2016, at 10:48 p.m., Officer Andrew Slota responded to the end of Cedar Lake Point in Forked River in reference to a report of a bon fire on the dirt road in the woods behind the homes. Upon arrival, Officer Slota observed a vehicle parked in front of the NJ Forest Fire Service access gate and a fire hydrant. Officer Slota then located 24-year-old Shawn C. Kaliske of Hastings Road in Forked River and 27-year-old Todd M. Rector of Echo Place in Toms River, NJ. Shawn Kaliske was charged with Open Burning and Todd Rector was charged with Improper Parking (Blocking Fire Hydrant). The State Forest Fire Service Extinguished the fire.

• Theft – On Thursday, January 7, 2016, at 5:06 p.m., Officer Adam Ewart responded to Ocean Street in Forked River for a report of a theft from a vehicle. The victim reported that between January 4, 2016 and January 7, 2016, an unknown person or persons entered her vehicle and stole a blue, paisley pattern, Vera Bradley valued at $50, a $25 Dunkin Donuts Gift Card, and approximately $4 in loose change. The vehicle was unlocked and parked in the driveway of the residence at the time of the theft.

• Theft – On Thursday, January 7, 2016, at 11:50 a.m., Officer Kymberly Gudgeon responded to Lacey Township Police Headquarters for a report of theft. The complainant reported that at approximately 10:30 a.m. on January 7, 2016, she parked her vehicle in the north parking lot of Walmart, 580 Route 9 North in Lanoka Harbor, NJ and then went shopping inside the store. Upon returning to her vehicle approximately a half hour later she observed that her Samsung Galaxy S6 cell phone had been stolen. The vehicle was unlocked at the time of the theft. The phone is valued at $700.

• Suspicious Person & Warrant Arrest – On Thursday, January 7, 2016, at 6:05 a.m., Officer Michael Hein responded to the area of Cypress Place in Forked River for a report of a suspicious person with a flashlight checking car door handles. Upon arrival, Officer Hein observed 38-year-old Joshua J. Everett of 1621 Sommerell Avenue in Forked River, NJ. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of Joshua Everett on an Ocean County Sheriff’s Department child support warrant in the amount of $20,642.78., an Aberdeen Township Municipal Court Warrant in the amount of $483, and a Deptford Township Municipal Court Warrant in the amount of $189. Joshua Everett was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where he was processed and transported to the Ocean County Correctional Facility in default of the bail. The investigation regarding the car burglaries was turned over to the Lacey Township Police Department Detective Bureau.

• Burglary – On Wednesday, January 6, 2016, at 6:55 p.m., Officer Elton Copes and Officer George Resetar responded to an East Hickory Drive residence in Lanoka Harbor for a report of a burglary. The homeowner reported that when a household member left the residence at 3:45 p.m. on January 6, 2016, and later returned home at 6:30 p.m., she discovered that someone had entered the house and stole items. Approximately 23 items had been stolen from the residence, with a total value of approximately $8,000. The items included at least 13 pieces of jewelry, two iPads, and at least 8 gift cards. There were no signs of forced entry, but it is undetermined if all of the doors and windows were locked. The Lacey Township Police Department Detective Bureau responded to the scene and assumed responsibility for the investigation. The Ocean County Sheriff’s Department Crime Scene Investigations Unit processed the scene.

• Bicyclist Struck – On Wednesday, January 6, 2016, at 5:03 p.m., Officer Kymberly Gudgeon responded to the intersection of Lake Barnegat Drive North and Steuben Avenue for a report of bicyclist that had been struck by a vehicle. Investigation at the scene indicated that the bicyclist, 55-year-old Kenneth Taylor of Lanoka Harbor, was traveling east across the intersection of Steuben Avenue and Lake Barnegat Drive North when he collided with a vehicle emerging from the stop sign. The vehicle was being operated by 76-year-old Eugene Dow of Forked River who was traveling south on Lake Barnegat Drive North. The bicyclist, Kenneth Taylor, was transported to Community Medical Center by the Lanoka Harbor First Aid Squad.

• Attempted Burglary – On Wednesday, January 6, 2016, at 4:28 p.m., Officer Charles May responded to the 500 block of Beach Boulevard in reference to an alarm activation. Investigation at the scene indicated that the front door of the residence had been damaged and opened. The Lacey Township Police Department Detective Bureau responded to the scene and took over the investigation. Nothing was reported stolen at the time of the report.

• Shoplifting (Arrest) – On Wednesday, January 6, 2016, at 1:31 p.m., Officer Michael Hein responded to Walmart, 580 Route 9 North in Lanoka Harbor, for a report of shoplifting. The loss prevention employee reported that a male subject attempted to leave the store without paying for the surveillance camera system. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest to 41-year-old Jungyen Tsai of Lawrence Street, Apartment 3F, Flushing NY, for shoplifting an (8) channel NightHawk 960H Security DVR, with four (4) cameras and a one (1) terabyte (TB) HDD (hard disk drive), valued at $269. Jungyen Tsai was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where he was processed and charged with Shoplifting.

Controlled Burning – The New Jersey Forest Fire Service has notified the Lacey Township Police Department that they will be conducting controlled burning today (Friday, January 15, 2016) in the area of Barnegat and Ocean Townships to our south. Residents in Lacey Township may smell smoke throughout the day and evening.

Weekly Police Blotter

January 12th thru 18th, 2016

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• DUI (Arrest) – On Monday, January 18, 2016, at 10:09 p.m., Officer Michael Verwey responded to the area of Haines Street in the Lanoka Harbor section of the township for a report of an aggressive driver. Officer Verwey stopped the motor vehicle on Western Boulevard near Manchester Avenue. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 46-year-old Jonathan S. Lloyd of Division Street in West Creek, NJ, for DUI. Jonathan Lloyd was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where he was processed and charged with DUI and Reckless Driving. The vehicle he was operating was impounded pursuant to John’s Law.

• Theft – On Monday, January 18, 2016, at 5:09 p.m., Officer Brian Holt responded to a residence on Lee Way for a report of theft. The homeowner reported that between Friday, January 8, 2016 and Monday, January 18, 2016, an unknown person or persons stole copper piping from her rental home. The copper piping was cut from the existing plumbing inside the crawl space of the residence. The damage and theft is estimated at $3,000.

• Warrant Arrest – On Monday, January 18, 2016, at 4:28 p.m., Officer Daniel Ricciardella responded to a residence on Oxgoose Drive in the Lanoka Harbor in reference to a report of a subject at the residence with a warrant for his arrest. The anonymous caller reported that 43-year-old Ned E. Berwanger of 837 Oxgoose Drive in Lanoka Harbor, NJ, had a warrant for his arrest. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of Ned Berwanger on a no-bail Ocean County Sheriff’s Department Warrant for violation of Drug Court. Ned Berwanger was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where he was processed and then transported to the Ocean County Correctional Facility.

• Drug Possession (Arrest) – On Saturday, January 16, 2016, at 10:43 p.m., Officer Michael Verwey was on patrol when he observed two subjects stopped in a vehicle in front of Ash Road Park, located at the intersection of Ash Road and Basin Road in Lanoka Harbor. The subjects were standing outside of the vehicle and appeared to be having a verbal argument. While speaking with the subjects, Officer Verwey observed a clear plastic bag containing Marijuana. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the driver of the vehicle, 21-year-old Nicolas S. Romano of East Hickory Drive in Lanoka Harbor, NJ, for possession of Marijuana. Nicolas Romano was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where he was processed and charged with Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

• Warrant Arrest – On Saturday, January 16, 2016, at 4:38 p.m., Officer Daniel Ricciardella responded to a Greenwood Lane residence in the Sunrise Beach Section of the Township to serve a warrant on 34-year-old Dana Kutassy of Cabot Street in Forked River. Dana Kutassy was located at the residence and was served with the Toms River Township Municipal Court warrant in the amount of $500. Dana Kutassy was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where he was processed and then released after posting bail.

• Theft – On Saturday, January 16, 2016, at 2:14 p.m., Officer Brian Holt responded to a residence on the 1700 block of Lakeside Drive South in Forked River for a report of a theft. A contractor reported that between 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 13, 2016 and 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, January 16, 2016, an unknown person or persons stole copper piping from the residence. The copper pipe was cut from the existing plumbing inside the basement of the residence. The theft and damage is estimated at $3,000. No signs of forced entry were located.

• DUI (Arrest) – On Saturday, January 16, 2016, at 2:28 a.m., Officer Elton Copes responded to the 1700 block of Woodside Road in the South Barnegat Pines section of the Township for a report of a dispute. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 40-year-old Melissa Fitzpatrick of Western Boulevard in Bayville, NJ, for DUI. Melissa Fitzpatrick was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where she was processed and charged with DUI and Reckless Driving. The vehicle she was driving was impounded pursuant to John’s Law.

• DUI (Arrest) – On Friday, January 15, 2016, at 8:08 p.m., Officer John McKee was on patrol when he was flagged down by a passing motorist who reported an erratic driver. Officer McKee located the vehicle on Stuyvesant Street in the Cranberry Hill Section of the township. As officer McKee approached the vehicle, he observed that the driver appeared to be passed out behind the wheel. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 45-year-old Sean M. Mahoney of Harris Road in Forked River, NJ for DUI. Sean Mahoney was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where he was processed and charged with DUI and Reckless Driving. The vehicle he was operating was impounded pursuant to John’s Law.

• Theft – Officers received several reports of unlocked vehicles having been entered during the overnight hours between Wednesday, January 13, 2016, and Monday, January 17, 2016. The streets on which the thefts occurred include: Conifer Drive, Penn Avenue North, Wynnewood Drive, and Sunrise Boulevard in Forked River, as well as East Hickory Drive in Lanoka Harbor. The stolen items included: loose change, cash, wallets, identification cards, credit/ATM cards, and an Apple Mac Book Air.

• Theft – On Thursday, January 14, 2016, at 3:32 p.m., Officer Jeffrey Slota received a report of theft in which the victim reported that between December 24, 2015 and December 27, 2015, an unknown person or persons stole the catalytic converter from his 1993 dump truck while it was parked at Lacey Exxon, located at 341 Route 9 North in Lanoka Harbor, NJ. The catalytic converter appeared to have been cut from the vehicle. The damage to the vehicle and value of the stolen property is estimated at $1,000.

• Theft – On Thursday, January 14, 2016, at 11:44 a.m., Officer Michael Hein responded to the Sprint Cell Phone Tower, located at 512 South Main Street in Forked River, for a report of theft. An employee reported that between December 14, 2015 and January 14, 2016, an unknown person or persons forced open a door to the Sprint utility building and ripped out copper wiring from the electronic equipment. The total theft is estimated at $1,200. The damage to the door is estimated at $500.

Winter Storm Advisory – Lacey Township OEM – Wednesday, January 20, 2016

Winter Storm Advisory – The Lacey Township Office of Emergency Management (OEM) is actively monitoring the progression of a potentially significant winter storm and the continuing changes in the weather projections. Throughout the remainder of the week, OEM will be working with local and county emergency service and support organizations to ensure that appropriate staffing and resources are available should the storm impact this area. Currently, we are expecting the potential for some degree of tidal flooding in low-lying areas and 40+ mph winds late Friday, January 22, 2016, into Saturday, January 23, 2016. Snowfall potential will be further evaluated as the storm moves closer and the actual path is determined. As with any weather projection, changes in the forecasts are likely to occur as the storm progresses.

Residents should begin reviewing their personal and family emergency plans as those plans relate to snow storm, power outage, and/or flooding situations. Most notably, families should always consider where they would go in the event a temporary evacuation is necessary due to a prolonged power outage in cold weather or flooding occurs which renders a home temporarily uninhabitable.

Lacey OEM provides information regarding winter storms and extreme cold through the OEM website at the following specific link: http://www.laceyoem.org/preparedness-center/winter/. Likewise, information regarding flooding is available through the OEM website at the following specific link: http://www.laceyoem.org/preparedness-center/floods/.

Residents should also prepare for potentially prolonged power outages.

Things to consider with a power outage include but are not limited to:

• Having a sufficient supply of fresh batteries in your home for flashlights. Be very careful using candles as a lighting source and avoid using candles around children and pets.

• Having an emergency supply of bottled water. Filling your bathtub with fresh water as the storm begins can help with having a ready supply should water sources be disrupted.

• Having a supply of convenience foods that do not require cooking.

• Maintaining a battery-powered radio with extra batteries available. Tune to a local station for current storm information.

Lacey OEM will continue releasing weather updates and storm related information through Twitter, Facebook, and the OEM website at www.LaceyOEM.org

The emergency automated telephone notifications will be reserved for specific and very important broadcasts of information should that become necessary.

Chief David A. Paprota, Ed.D.
Lacey OEM Coordinator

Temporary Parking Available – Gille Park has been designated as a temporary parking area for residents of Lacey Township to park vehicles from low-lying areas during the period of potential flooding due to the impending storm activity. Vehicles may be legally parked within a parking stall and must be removed in a timely manner following the storm. Vehicles which are left in the park during the storm are done so at the owner’s own risk. The ability to access and remove the vehicles immediately following the storm may be greatly hindered by excessive snow accumulations; therefore, an extension to the period the vehicles may remain in the park will be extended and announced as reasonably necessary.

Regardless of whether in low-lying areas or elsewhere in Lacey Township, ALL vehicles and objects (e.g., portable basketball hoops) must be removed from the roadway during any degree of snowfall. If the storm includes significant snow accumulations, tow trucks will be on standby to quickly remove unattended vehicles so that the plow operators can work to clear the roadways without unnecessary obstructions.  – Chief David A. Paprota, Ed.D.

Telephone Notification (1 p.m. – 2 p.m.) – The following is a transcript of the automated telephone message sent to residents:

The impending winter storm is expected to hit our area tonight during the late evening hours with heavy snow, strong winds, and flooding along the low-lying back-bay areas. While each aspect of the storm poses a concern for residents and emergency services, the possibility of power outages due to 60+ mile-per-hour winds adds to the potential for significant problems over the weekend. In the event the worst projection of the storm impacts this area, each household should expect to be housebound for the weekend and prepare accordingly taking into consideration factors such as food, water, medication, individual healthcare needs, lighting, warmth, etc.

Those whose homes are in low-lying areas and are susceptible to flooding should strongly consider voluntarily evacuating prior to the storm and staying with friends or family on higher ground, if possible.

Gille Park near the hockey rinks has been designated as an alternate parking area where residents can temporarily park vehicles on higher ground and off the roadways. No vehicles can be parked on roadways once the snow starts. Vehicles parked and left on roadways will need to be towed to provide the plow operators a reasonable chance to clear the snow as possible. Likewise, other objects such as portable basketball nets must be moved from the roadside as well.

The Saturday morning high tide on the Forked River is expected at 10:08 a.m. which is anticipated to come after over 13 hours of the storm hitting this area. Again, as a precaution, those whose homes are in low-lying areas and are susceptible to flooding should strongly consider voluntarily evacuating today (Friday), prior to the storm, and staying with friends or family, if possible.

I will continue to provide updates via internet resources, media releases, and/or phone notifications as appropriate.

I thank you for your time and cooperation. – Chief David A. Paprota, Ed.D. (Emergency Management Coordinator)

Weather Emergency Update (Saturday, January 23, 2016 at 11:30 a.m.) – The latest weather report indicates Lacey Township can expect high wind gusts along with sleet and snow (blizzard) conditions to continue through the afternoon and evening. Winds may intensify during the afternoon resulting in more power outages due to downed trees and utility lines. The roadways are extremely dangerous and must remain clear of unnecessary vehicles to allow plows to operate and emergency services to attend to ongoing emergency calls-for-service.

Lacey Township emergency services are all staffed and operating to address current emergency calls. There are pockets of power outages throughout the township which are actively being addressed by JCP&L crews and successfully being corrected. JCP&L crews are working from the ground level; full repairs cannot be addressed until winds diminish.

The first high tide cycle of concern for Forked River was at 10:08 a.m. and has not presented a significant problem. The next high tide cycle is expected at 10:36 p.m. and is anticipated to present more of an issue for the low-lying areas along the bay than we have experienced to this point.

Medical and other emergencies are (and will be) handled without delay, as plow crews are leading emergency vehicles to the necessary locations.

Residents are asked to continue to be understanding and remain in their homes at this time until the storm passes and the roadways are reported as being adequately cleared. Conditions are expected to worsen throughout the afternoon and evening.

The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) of Lacey Township Emergency Management has been activated and in communication with all emergency services as well as Ocean County Emergency Management. I will provide updates as available and appropriate.

– Chief David A. Paprota, Ed.D.

Saturday Evening Weather Emergency Update (1/23/2016 at 6 p.m.): Winter storm Jonas is progressing through our area and will continue through the evening hours with the additional accumulation of snow. High tide and the associated storm surge of tidal water is expected to be at its peak in our area at 10:36 p.m. tonight. Prolonged power outages continue to affect a portion of residences in the Laurel Boulevard area in Lanoka Harbor and the Pensacola Road and Orlando Drive area in Forked River. JCP&L has assured that crews are assigned to conduct the repairs and restore power to both areas as well as the spotty outages elsewhere in the township.

The township emergency services continue to respond to trees down throughout the township as well as low-hanging and downed wires. Residents are reminded to be extremely cautious and not to touch any downed wires.

Snow plows will continue to work through the night to clear roadways. No vehicles may be left in or along roadways as plows need to operate with roadway obstructions. Residents must be mindful that the plows will leave a berm of snow across the end of driveways as they push the snow from and along the roadways.

Residents are asked to check on their neighbors who may be vulnerable and advise the police department if any concerns arise.

– Chief David A. Paprota, Ed.D.

Weather Emergency Update (Early Sunday Morning, 1/24/16) – The winds have diminished and the storm system is pulling away from the coast with trailing snow bands leaving some additional snow accumulation. The Saturday night high tide resulted in some minor street flooding in only the lowest lying areas of the bay front along Beach Boulevard in Forked River. The next high tide will be at 10:52 a.m. in Forked River.

As of midnight, less than 100 homes throughout the township remained without power. JCP&L had crews assigned to each outage with the expectation that all outages would be restored during the overnight hours.

All roadways will be very slippery on Sunday, as snowfall continued past the number of hours plow operators could reasonably work to clear the roads. Residents should exercise extreme caution and avoid driving if possible. The stopping areas leading up to intersections will be extremely slippery intersections making stopping at stop signs and traffic lights very difficult.

Additional updates will be provided as necessary and appropriate.

– Chief David A. Paprota, Ed.D.

Weather Emergency Update (Sunday, 1/24/16 at 8:00 a.m.) – Lacey Township currently has some homes without power as of 8:00 a.m. this morning. Some areas that were reported to have been restored have since been verified as still being without power (e.g., Hidden Harbor Place in Lanoka Harbor). This is of great concern due to the cold weather and the prolonged period of the outages. The public can assist by checking with friends, family and neighbors to verify that they are OK and to ascertain if they are affected by a power outage. Continuing power outages throughout today need to be reported to the police department, so we can check the well-being of residents as needed and address the continuing issues with the power company. JCP&L has advised that further repairs in Lacey Township will be addressed as crews become available.

The roadways will remain very slippery throughout the day. If it is necessary to drive today, extreme caution must be exercised and speed must be significantly reduced. It is recommended that the general public stay off the roadways if possible.  – Chief David A. Paprota, Ed.D.

Weekly Police Blotter

January 19th thru 25th, 2016

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• Extortion via the Internet – On Monday, January 25, 2016, at 12:41 p.m., Lacey Township Police responded to a Lanoka Harbor address in reference to a report of extortion. The victim reported that he was engaged in a sexually-related video chat with a subject online and was utilizing the video chat service “Skype.” The victim reported that the subject who he believed was a female actually misrepresented his/her gender and ultimately revealed himself as a male. Upon the victim preparing to cease the video chat, the unknown male subject reportedly threatened to post a sexually explicit video on YouTube that he had captured of the victim unless the victim paid $250. The victim reported that he abruptly discontinued the video link only to later find that the video was posted on YouTube. The explicit video was reportedly removed shortly thereafter, prior to police involvement.

• Warrant Arrest – On Sunday, January 24, 2016, at 6:47 p.m., Officer Scott Keefe responded to the 200 block of Quail Lane South in Lanoka Harbor to serve a warrant on 37-year-old Ivan B. Garrison. Ivan Garrison was located and arrested on an outstanding Berkeley Township Municipal Court warrant in the amount of $20,000 and an outstanding Lacey Township Municipal Court warrant in the amount of $750. Ivan Garrison was processed at Lacey Township Police Headquarters and then transported to the Ocean County Correctional Facility in default of the bail.

• Theft – On Sunday, January 24, 2016, at 4:04 p.m., Officer Patrick Watkins responded to Retro Fitness, 416 Route 9 South in Forked River, for a report of a stolen wallet. The victim, Adam Petrowski, reported that between 2:30 p.m. and 3:55 p.m. on Sunday, January 24, 2016, an unknown person or persons stole his wallet. The victim reported that the wallet was stolen from an unsecured locker in the men’s locker room of the facility. The brown leather Eagle wallet reportedly contained $45 in cash, his NJ driver’s license, and various ATM and credit cards. The total value of the stolen property is estimated at $57.

• Shoplifting (Arrest) – On Sunday, January 24, 2016, at 2:16 p.m., Officer Brian Holt responded to Walmart, 580 Route 9 North in Lanoka Harbor, for a report of shoplifting. The loss prevention employee reported that a male subject removed a security device from a HP desktop computer and attempted to leave the store without paying for the item. The computer was recovered by loss prevention before the suspect exited the store and fled in a vehicle. The vehicle was immediately located and was stopped by Special Officer Edgaras Lenkauskas on Murray Grove Lane. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 30-year-old Christopher L. Wells of 286 Roosevelt Avenue in Bayville, NJ for shoplifting and 27-year-old Jessica L. Mairoano of 32 South Tennessee Avenue in Atlantic City, NJ on an outstanding Ocean County Sheriff’s Department Child Support Warrant in the amount of $13,570; an outstanding Mahwah Township Municipal Court warrant in the amount of $1500; an outstanding Mahwah Township Municipal Court warrant in the amount of $750; and an outstanding Absecon Township Municipal Court warrant in the amount of $658. Jessica L. Mairoano was also found to be in possession of drug paraphernalia and a hypodermic syringe. Both suspects were transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters. Jessica L. Mairoano was processed and charged with Possession of a Hypodermic Syringe and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Jessica L. Mairoano was turned over to the custody of the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department. Christopher L. Wells was processed and charged with Shoplifting.

• Shoplifting (Arrest) – On Sunday, January 24, 2016, at 12:33 p.m., Officer Charles May responded to Home Depot, 244 Route 9 North in Forked River, for a report of shoplifting. The loss prevention employee reported that he observed a male subject grab two 5-gallon buckets of paint and then attempted to leave the store without paying for the merchandise. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 23-year-old Ryan T. Miller of 745 Center Street in Forked River, NJ, for shoplifting two 5-gallon buckets of exterior paint valued at $350. Ryan Miller was also found to have a hypodermic syringe, crack pipe, and drug paraphernalia in his possession. Ryan Miller was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where he was processed and charged with Shoplifting, Possession of a Hypodermic Syringe, and two counts of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

• DUI (Arrest) – On Sunday, January 24, 2016, at 2:23 a.m., Officer Andrew Slota responded to the area of Lakeside Drive South and Sylvania Place in reference to a report of an intoxicated driver whose vehicle was stuck in the snow. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 18-year-old Krista M. Marshall of Woodland Road in Forked River, NJ for DUI. Krista Marshall was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where she was processed and charged with DUI and Reckless Driving. The vehicle she was driving was impounded pursuant to John’s Law.

• Shoplifting (Arrest) – On Thursday, January 21, 2016, at 2:01 p.m., Officer Jesse Dalziel responded to Walmart, 580 Route 9 North in Lanoka Harbor, for a report of shoplifting. The loss prevention employee reported that a female removed three boxes of Lego’s valued at $179.88 from the store shelves and concealed them in Walmart shopping bags. The female then left the store without paying for the merchandise and then entered a vehicle that was parked in the parking lot. A male subject exited the vehicle with the Lego’s and attempted to return them without a receipt. The store refused to do the return and the subjects left with the merchandise. The loss prevention employees reviewed surveillance video and determined that the merchandise had been stolen. Officer Dalziel located the suspect vehicle and effectuated a motor vehicle stop near the intersection of Route 9 and Haines Street. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 25-year-old Nicole E. Lugo of 1322 Lee Way in Forked River, NJ for shoplifting and 28-year-old Vincente A. Scalzo of 425 Drew Avenue in Lanoka harbor, NJ, for receiving stolen property. Nicole Lugo was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where she was processed and charged with Shoplifting, Driving While Suspended, and Maintenance of Lamps. Vincente Scalzo was charged with Receiving Stolen Property.

• Warrant Arrest – On Thursday, January 21, 2016, at 5:28 p.m., Officer Jesse Dalziel was on patrol in Lanoka Harbor when he stopped a green Toyota Camry for careless driving. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the driver, 21-year-old Cole A. Gonnella, on two outstanding Stafford Township Municipal Court warrants in the amounts of $500 and $250. Cole Gonnella was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where he was processed and charged with Driving While Suspended and Careless Driving. Cole Gonnella was turned over to the custody of the Stafford Township Police Department.

• Theft – On Thursday, January 21, 2016, at 4:43 p.m., Officer Adam Ewart responded to Bobwhite Court in Forked River for a report of theft. The victims reported that between 6:45 p.m. on Wednesday, January 20, 2016 and 3:30 p.m. on Thursday, January 21, 2016, an unknown person or persons entered their unlocked vehicles and stole approximately $20 in looses change, $3 in cash, a pack of Marlboro cigarettes, and a TD Bank ATM card.

• Burglary – On Wednesday, January 20, 2016, at 5:28 p.m., Officer Noah Schaffer responded to the 600 block of Beach Boulevard in reference to a report of burglary. The victim reported that between Monday, January 11, 2016 and Wednesday, January 20, 2016, an unknown person or persons smashed out the rear sliding glass door of the residence and rummaged through the home. It has not been determined if anything had been stolen. The Lacey Township Detective Bureau is investigating.

• Drug Possession (Arrest) – On Tuesday, January 19, 2016, Officer Jason Lee was on patrol when he observed a suspicious vehicle parked in the area of Clearview Street and Jay Street. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the vehicle occupants, 20-year-old Mackeline S. Hogdon of 3 Commodore Court in Barnegat, NJ and 20-year-old Meeghan Mull of 670 East Bay Avenue in Barnegat, NJ, for possession of Marijuana. Mackeline Hogdon and Meeghan Mull were both transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where they were processed and each charged with Possession of Marijuana.

Public Notice (Vibrations) – The Lacey Township Police Department is currently looking into unexplained vibrations occurring throughout the township. Thus far, it has been determined that the same vibrations are being reported throughout Ocean County and are not specific to our town. Upon identifying the source or cause of the vibrations, the public will be advised without delay.

UPDATE: The U.S. Geological Service has indicated that earlier reports of earthquake activity are unfounded, and they have revised their assessment and are attributing the vibrations to sonic booms which reportedly occurred over a 90 minute period starting at 1:24 p.m. today. The U.S. Navy is now reporting test flight activity originating out of Maryland that appears to be the cause of the sonic booms.

– Chief David A. Paprota, Ed.D.

Scam Alert (2/1/2016) – While telephone and computer scams, both national and international and of all types, have become a daily occurrence and are only limited by the level of creativity and deceptive of the scammer, there appears to be a heightened level of the IRS telephone scam being attempted today. Residents should be aware that this scam involves an attempt by the caller to sound very official and authoritative in telling the potential victim that the caller is operating under the authority of the IRS. False threats are made stating that the potential victim will be arrested if he or she does not forward an immediate payment.

Any legitimate concern with the IRS would involve a lengthy process of official notifications with some degree of due process over time. Residents are asked to not entertain these callers and simply hang up. A vast majority of the scam calls are coming from locations in other countries and unfortunately continue because victims do, in too many cases, forward payments in the false belief the call may be legitimate. Unfortunately, over the past three years there have been several cases investigated to no successful conclusion involving the loss of tens of thousands of dollars to scammers. – Chief David A. Paprota, Ed.D.

Weekly Police Blotter

January 26th thru February 2nd, 2016

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• Warrant Arrest – On Monday, February 1, 2016, at 10:13 p.m., Officer Scott Keefe was on patrol when he observed 32-year-old Paul. E. Shook 3^rd of Sexton Drive in Barnegat, NJ on Seabright Road and Cape Cod Road in Forked River. Paul. E. Shook 3^rd was placed under arrest on a Toms River Township Municipal Court warrant in the amount of $1,500; a Little Egg Harbor Township Municipal Court warrant in the amount $450; and a Barnegat Township Municipal Court warrant in the amount of $500. Paul Shook was transported to the Lacey Township Police Headquarters where he was processed and then transported to the Ocean County Correctional Facility in default of the bail.

• Theft – On Monday, February 1, 2016, at 1:28 p.m., Officer Patrick Watkins responded to the Labcorp building, 525 Lacey Road in Forked River, NJ for a report of theft. The manager reported that between October 2015 and February 1, 2016 some person or persons cut and removed the copper from five air conditioning units that are located on the outside of the building. The theft and damage are estimated at $18,000. The Lacey Township Police Department Detective Bureau responded to assist in the investigation.

• Criminal Mischief – On Monday, February 1, 2016, at 1:28 p.m., Officer Kymberly Gudgeon responded to Bella Bronze Tanning Salon, 335 Route 9 North in Forked River, for a report of criminal mischief. The owners reported that between 5:00 p.m. on January 30, 2016 and 10:00 a.m. on January 31, 2016, an unknown person or persons damaged the neon sign located outside the front of the business. The damage is estimated at $2,000.

• DUI (Arrest) – On Saturday, January 30, 2016, at 8:47 p.m., Officer John McKee was on patrol when he observed a vehicle failing to maintain its lane. Officer John McKee conducted a traffic stop on Route 9 and South Street in Lanoka Harbor. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the driver, 39-year-old Lisa A. Crooks of Locker Street in Beachwood, NJ, for DUI. Lisa Crooks was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where she was processed and charged with DUI, Reckless Driving, and Failure to Maintain Lane. The vehicle she was operating was impounded pursuant to John’s Law.

• Robbery (Arrest) – On Friday, January 29, 2016, at 6:18 p.m., Officer Elton Copes responded to the area of Clearview Street and Ocean Street in the South Barnegat Pines section of the township for a report of a strong-arm robbery. A resident reported that he was walking his dog in that area when he heard a female yell that she had just been robbed. The resident chased the suspect towards Ocean Street where he eventually lost sight of suspect. The female victim reported that on Friday, January 29, 2016, she gave a male subject, later identified as 22-year-old Joseph L. Biggs of 210 Brookville Road in Barnegat, NJ, a ride to Lacey Township from a friend’s house in Waretown, NJ. Upon getting to Lacey, Joseph Biggs reportedly told her to pull over where he allegedly grabbed her wallet from the center console of the vehicle and got out of the vehicle with it. The victim confronted Joseph Biggs, who then reportedly kicked her legs out from under her and pushed her to the ground causing injury. The suspect fled the scene on foot. Further investigation led to Joseph Biggs being charged with 2^nd Degree Robbery with a warrant was issued for his arrest. Superior Court Judge Wendel Daniels set bail at $150,000. Joseph Biggs turned himself in on Sunday, January 31, 2016. He was processed and transported to the Ocean County Correctional Facility in default of bail.

• DUI (Arrest) – On Friday, January 29, 2016, at 9:45 p.m., Officer Adam Ewart and Officer Charles May responded to the CVS Pharmacy, 700 Route 9 North in Lanoka Harbor, for a report of a vehicle that was reported to have almost hit a pole as it was pulling out of the parking lot. The vehicle left the scene, but the caller provided the registration number on the license plate which indicated that the registered owner resided on Maple Road in Lanoka Harbor, NJ. Officer Ewart and Officer May responded to Maple Road and observed the driver passed out and slumped over the center console of the vehicle. The officers were able to awaken the driver and investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 55-year-old Mark A. Dangelo of Maple Road for DUI. Mark Dangelo was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where he was processed and charged with DUI and Reckless Driving. The vehicle he was operating was impounded pursuant to John’s Law.

• Warrant Arrest – On Thursday, January 28, 2016, at 11:40 a.m., Officer Michael Hein and Officer Frederick Anderson responded to 1530 Arient Road in the South Barnegat Pines section of the township to serve a no bail Ocean County Sheriff’s Department warrant on 29-year-old Matthew C. Clinton of 536 Devon Street in Forked River, NJ. Upon arrival at the residence, Matthew Clinton attempted to flee by escaping through a window of the residence and climbing a fence. Officer Anderson gave chase and was able to apprehend Matthew Clinton. Matthew Clinton was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where he was processed and then transported to the Ocean County Correctional Facility.

• Drug Possession (Arrest) – On Thursday, January 28, 2016, at 1:02 p.m., Detective Robert Surtees and Detective Brian Flynn were driving in the area of Nautilus Boulevard and Raleigh Drive in the Sunrise Beach section of the township when they observed 34-year-old Dana Kutassy of 431 Cabot Street in Forked River, NJ. Dana Kutassy had been reported to have been knocking on the doors of local homes and attempting to sell Kohl’s gift cards the day prior. Upon approaching Dana Kutassy, he was observed putting packets of Heroin in his pocket. The detectives arrested 34-year-old Dana Kutassy for possession of Heroin. Dana Kutassy was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where he was processed and charged with Possession of Heroin, Possession of a Hypodermic Syringe, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

• Warrant Arrest – On Wednesday, January 27, 2016, at 7:33 p.m., Officer Anthony Sarno was on patrol in the area of Route 9 North and Oak Street when he observed 30-year-old Nicholas M. Picone of Whitcomb Road in Forked River, NJ driving down the roadway. Officer Sarno was aware that Nicholas Picone had a suspended driver’s license and two warrants for his arrest. Officer Sarno stopped the vehicle on Oak Street near Route 9. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of Nicholas Picone on two outstanding Lacey Township Municipal Court warrants in the amounts of $250 each. Nicholas Picone was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where he was processed and released after posting bail. He was issued a summons for Driving with a Suspended License.

• DUI (Arrest) – On Wednesday, January 27, 2016, at 4:20 a.m., Officer Christopher Meyler was on patrol when he stopped a vehicle on Joffre Road in Forked River. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the driver, 26-year-old Samantha J. Rooney of Willow Street in Waretown, NJ for DUI. Samantha Rooney was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where she was processed and charged with DUI, Reckless Driving, and Failure to Signal Turn. The vehicle she was driving was impounded pursuant to John’s law.

Scam Alert Update (2/4/2016) – On Wednesday afternoon, February 3, 2016, the Lacey Township Police Department received a report of a Forked River resident who had just been defrauded $6,435.00 through the telephone IRS scam. The 75-year-old female resident received a call from a male with a foreign accent (possibly India) claiming to be an IRS agent collecting on back taxes. Threats were reportedly made that the resident would be arrested if she did not make an immediate payment. The resident responded to the Wells Fargo Bank on Lacey Road and followed the caller’s instructions to facilitate the deposit of money into a specified account. Once Lacey Township Police Department became aware of the transaction, Officer Brian Holt worked with bank officials to possibly block the transaction. The matter is under active investigation. The Lacey Township Police Department produced a Warning Notice from information provided on the IRS.gov website and distributed it to each of banks in town.

Prior Release (2/1/2016)

While telephone and computer scams, both national and international and of all types, have become a daily occurrence and are only limited by the level of creativity and deceptive of the scammer, there appears to be a heightened level of the IRS telephone scam being attempted today. Residents should be aware that this scam involves an attempt by the caller to sound very official and authoritative in telling the potential victim that the caller is operating under the authority of the IRS. False threats are made stating that the potential victim will be arrested if he or she does not forward an immediate payment.

Any legitimate concern with the IRS would involve a lengthy process of official notifications with some degree of due process over time. Residents are asked to not entertain these callers and simply hang up. A vast majority of the scam calls are coming from locations in other countries and unfortunately continue because victims do, in too many cases, forward payments in the false belief the call may be legitimate. Unfortunately, over the past three years there have been several cases investigated to no successful conclusion involving the loss of tens of thousands of dollars to scammers. – Chief David A. Paprota, Ed.D.

Burglary Warrant (Arrest) – Detective Keith Pearce has been assisting Detective Robert Surtees with a continuing investigation into multiple incidents of thefts from unlocked vehicles which occurred in Lacey Township in both December and January. A cooperative investigation with surrounding jurisdictions revealed Joshua Everett of Forked River as a suspect. Detectives from the Berkeley Township Police Department issued warrants for the arrest of Joshua Everett on charges of burglary and theft out of their jurisdiction. Similar charges from detectives of the Lacey Township Police Department are pending further investigation. Investigation since the issuance of the Berkeley Township warrants revealed that Joshua Everett fled the area and was possibly staying in or around the Atlantic City area. Detective Pearce continued his investigation into the location of Joshua Everett and provided information to Patrol Officer Anthony Sarno.

On Thursday evening, February 4, 2016, Officer Anthony Sarno of the Lacey Township Police Department conducted a motor vehicle stop of a vehicle exiting the Garden State Parkway from the South onto Lacey Road. The vehicle was subsequently stopped in the parking lot near Deerhead Lake in Forked River. Joshua Everett was found hidden in the back seat wearing a black wig, skull cap, and glasses. Officer Sarno placed Joshua Everett under arrest and a search of him revealed 32 empty wax folds, a hypodermic syringe, 4 Trazodone pills, and other drug paraphernalia in his possession. Joshua Everett was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters and charged with Possession of a Hypodermic Needle, Possession of Prescription Legend Drugs, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia on a warrant with bail set at $7,500. The Berkeley Township warrant for Burglary and Theft was executed with bail set at $25,000. Joshua Everett had two additional outstanding traffic warrants out of Deptford Township and the Borough of Westville with a combined bail of $389. Joshua Everett was transported to the Ocean County Correctional Facility.

A Call for New Members – This past weekend, Lanoka Harbor EMS and Lacey Township EMS held their annual installation dinners announcing the leadership of their organizations for the upcoming year while also recognizing all of the hard work of their members during the past year. Both organizations truly exemplify what makes Lacey Township so special. The commitment to excellence and spirit of community volunteerism runs deep in each organization. The members of both EMS squads consistently express the tremendous sense of fulfillment they gain from volunteering. There are very few things in life that match the experience of riding with an emergency response unit to assist others in their time of need.

The EMS squads both rely on new members joining to maintain their ranks and move their organizations forward in consistently providing the highest level of emergency medical services throughout the township. Be a part of something special while learning new skills. Anyone wishing to apply for membership in either organization can do so through the following links:

Lanoka Harbor EMS Membership Information

Lacey Township EMS Membership Information

Handgun Permits Issued in 2015 – The Lacey Township Police Department processed and issued 651 handgun permits in 2015 which is up from 562 handgun permits processed and issued in 2014. The number of permits issued in 2015 is down 216 permits from the all-time high in 2013 of 867. Historically, the Lacey Township Police Department processed and issued an average of 200 handgun permits annually upon application from local residents in the years leading up to and through 2008.

The annual statistics for the issuance of handgun permits in Lacey Township is as follows:

Year                            Handgun Permits Issued

2015                                                  651

2014                                                  562

2013                                                  867

2012                                                  506

2011                                                  398

2010                                                  289

2009                                                  354

2008                                                  187

2007                                                   217

2006                                                   227

2005                                                   191

Handgun permits are issued based on strict criteria established under state law. Each application requires a comprehensive background check which is handled by the Lacey Township Detective Bureau and processing by Records Bureau personnel. Ultimately, each applicant’s background investigation report is reviewed by the Chief of Police and signed for issuance to the resident. The lengthy process is often delayed by required processes outside the control of the police department, including the receipt of responses by references provided by the applicant. References who do not return the form in a timely manner delay the process indefinitely.

Weekly Police Blotter

February 3rd thru February 8th, 2016

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• Drug Possession and Distribution (Arrests) – On Wednesday, February 3, 2016, detectives of the Lacey Township Police Department obtained a search warrant for 207 Greenwood Lane in Forked River as part of an ongoing drug distribution investigation. The warrant execution was preceded by a motor vehicle stop that led to the arrest of a female passenger. Michele Baig, 26, of 719 Drew Avenue in Lanoka Harbor was placed under arrest during the stop after crack-cocaine was found in her possession. The target of the investigation, 54-year-old Steven Concannon of 207 Greenwood Lane in Forked River, was a second passenger in the vehicle and was detained while the warrant was executed at his residence. A search of 207 Greenwood Lane yielded Heroin that was located in the bedroom of Concannon. Concannon was placed under arrest and lodged in the Ocean County Correctional Facility after being charged with Possession of Heroin and Intent to Distribute Heroin. His bail was set at $50,000. Michele Baig and the driver of the vehicle, 34-year-old Robert Goffio of 1205 Ocean Street in Forked River, were both charged with Possession of CDS.

• DUI (Arrest) – On Saturday, February 6, 2016, at 4:05 p.m., Officer Adam Ewart responded to the 7-11 at 524 Lacey Road in Forked River, NJ for a report of an erratic driver on Lacey Road who had just pulled into the parking lot. The caller reported that the vehicle had been traveling east on Lacey Road and had entered the westbound lanes of travel almost colliding with oncoming traffic. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 40-year-old Mahesh M. Chaudhari of Toms River, NJ for DUI. Mahesh Chaudhari was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where he was processed and charged with DUI and Reckless Driving.

• Warrant Arrest – On Saturday, February 6, 2016, at 3:35 p.m., Officer Jesse Dalziel stopped a motorist on Lacey Road near Eagleswood Avenue in the North Barnegat Pine Section of Forked River. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 21-year-old Gianna M. Yeager of Lanoka Harbor, NJ on an outstanding Borough of Island Heights Municipal Court warrant in the amount of $250. Gianna Yeager was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where she was processed and released after posting bail.

• Warrant Arrest – On Saturday, February 6, 2016, at 11:42 p.m., Officer John McKee stopped a vehicle for having a suspended registration. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 27-year-old Erin M. Murphy of Bayville, NJ on an outstanding Wall Township Municipal Court warrant in the amount of $500 and a Mantoloking Municipal Court warrant in the amount of $250. Erin Murphy was issued a summons for Driving While Suspended and Expired Driver’s License.

• Burglary Warrant (Arrest) – Detective Keith Pearce has been assisting Detective Robert Surtees with a continuing investigation into multiple incidents of thefts from unlocked vehicles which occurred in Lacey Township in both December and January. A cooperative investigation with surrounding jurisdictions revealed Joshua Everett of Forked River as a suspect. Detectives from the Berkeley Township Police Department issued warrants for the arrest of Joshua Everett on charges of Burglary and Theft out of their jurisdiction. Similar charges from detectives of the Lacey Township Police Department are pending further investigation. Investigation since the issuance of the Berkeley Township warrants revealed that Joshua Everett fled the area and was possibly staying in or around the Atlantic City area. Detective Pearce continued his investigation into the location of Joshua Everett and provided information to Patrol Officer Anthony Sarno.

  On Thursday evening, February 4, 2016, Officer Anthony Sarno of the Lacey Township Police Department conducted a motor vehicle stop of a vehicle exiting the Garden State Parkway from the South onto Lacey Road. The vehicle was subsequently stopped in the parking lot near Deerhead Lake in Forked River. Joshua Everett was found hidden in the back seat wearing a black wig, skull cap, and glasses. Officer Sarno placed Joshua Everett under arrest and a search of him revealed 32 empty wax folds, a hypodermic syringe, 4 Trazodone pills, and other drug paraphernalia in his possession. Joshua Everett was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters and charged with Possession of a Hypodermic Needle, Possession of Prescription Legend Drugs, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia on a warrant with bail set at $7,500. The Berkeley Township warrant for Burglary and Theft was executed with bail set at $25,000. Joshua Everett had two additional outstanding traffic warrants out of Deptford Township and the Borough of Westville with a combined bail of $389. Joshua Everett was transported to the Ocean County Correctional Facility.

• Auto Theft – On Thursday, February 4, 2016, at 7:14 a.m., Officer Darrell Nick responded to a residence on Neptune Court in the Forked River Beach section of the township for a report of a stolen vehicle. The victim reported that he parked his gray, 2005, Ford Escape in front of his house at approximately 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 and upon waking in the morning, he discovered that it was missing. The victim reported that he could not locate his keys and may have dropped them outside the night prior. The vehicle was reported to be valued at $1,000. On Saturday, February 6, 2016, the vehicle was located in Atlantic City. The Lacey Township Police Department Detective Bureau is investigating.

• Fire – On Wednesday, February 3, 2016, at 9:35 p.m., Officer Michael Verwey responded to Quality Chiropractic, 15 Manchester Avenue in Forked River, NJ for a report of a fire. The staff had extinguished the fire prior to the arrival of the emergency services. It is believed that the fire occurred as a result of water leaking into a light fixture. The Ocean County Fire Marshall responded and is investigating. The damage is believed to be minimal.

• Warrant Arrest – On Wednesday, February 3, 2016, at 12:49 a.m., Officer Jason Lee was on patrol when he stopped a vehicle on Route 9 near Jones Road in the Forked River section of the township for speeding. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the 24-year-old Taylor A. Swinson of Strathmere Street in Waretown, NJ on an outstanding Colts Neck Township Municipal Court warrant in the amount of $215. Taylor Swinson was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where he was processed and released after posting bail. Taylor Swinson was issued a summons for speeding.

• Shoplifting (Arrest) – On Tuesday, February 2, 2016, Officer Patrick Watkins responded to Walmart, 580 Route 9 North in Lanoka Harbor, for a report of shoplifting. The loss prevention employee reported that he observed a female subject place items into her shopping cart and then attempted to leave the store without paying for them. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 54-year-old Maureen M. Leal of Harzold Road in Forked River, NJ for shoplifting $36.84 worth of merchandise. Maureen Leal was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where she was processed and charged with Shoplifting.

Weekly Police Blotter

February 9th thru February 15th, 2016

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• Theft – On Monday, February 15, 2016, at 8:28 p.m., Officer Andrew Slota responded to Applebee’s, 404 Route 9 South in the Forked River section of the township, for a report of theft. The manager reported that a male subject started a bar tab and then left without paying. The suspect is described as a white male in his mid-thirties with dark hair and light-colored eyes. The suspect goes by the name of “Pete” and is believed to have done this at the restaurant on more than one occasion. The total value of the theft is $35.30.

• MV Accident & Warrant Arrest – On Monday, February 15, 2016, at 1:10 p.m., Officer Frederick Anderson responded to Warren Avenue in the Lanoka Harbor section of the township for a report of a one car motor vehicle accident. A vehicle was traveling down Warren Avenue when the driver, 20-year-old Gregory J. Fenton of Dugout Drive in Lanoka Harbor, lost control and struck mailboxes. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of a passenger, 21-year-old Casey M. Sinopoli of Clairmore Avenue in Lanoka Harbor, on an outstanding Camden City Municipal Court warrant in the amount of $300. Casey Sinopoli was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters, where he was processed and released after posting bail.

• Criminal Mischief – On Monday, February 15, 2016, at 10:54 a.m., Officer Michael Hein responded to Lacey Township Police Headquarters in reference to a report of criminal mischief. The victim reported that between 10:00 p.m. on Friday, February 12, 2016 and 8:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 13, 2016, an unknown person or persons damaged the driver side mirror of his vehicle. The vehicle was parked on Weehawken Avenue near the intersection of Tappan Street at the time of the incident. The damage is estimated at $300.

• Theft – On Sunday, February 14, 2016, at 6:40 p.m., Officer Andrew Slota responded to Retro Fitness, 410 South Main Street in the Forked River section of the Township, for a report of theft. The victim reported that he stored his back-pack in the men’s locker room while he was working out and upon being told that a subject was going through the lockers, he discovered that $82 in cash had been stolen. The staff was made aware and a potential suspect was identified, but had left prior to the police being contacted. A suspect has been identified and the matter under investigation.

• DUI (Arrest) – On Saturday, February 13, 2016, at 10:48 p.m., Officer John McKee was on patrol when he observed a vehicle in front of him strike a curb at the intersection of Lake Barnegat Drive North and Lacey Road. Upon following the vehicle and observing the vehicle failing to maintain its lane of travel, Officer McKee conducted a traffic stop of the vehicle on Veterans Way and Manchester Avenue in Forked River. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 19-year-old Caroline Erikson of Chelsea Street in Forked River, NJ for DUI by Officer Dimitrios Tsarnas. Caroline Erikson was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where she was processed and charged with DUI, Reckless Driving, Failure to Maintain Lane, Open Container in a Motor Vehicle, and Underage Consumption of Alcohol. The vehicle she was operating was impounded pursuant to John’s Law.

• Warrant Arrest – On Saturday, February 13, 2016, at 9:59 p.m., Officer Adam Ewart and Officer Dimitrios Tsarnas responded to Applebee’s, 404 Route 9 south in the Forked River section of the township for a report of a verbal argument between two patrons. As Officer Tsarnas was responding to the scene, he observed a male fitting the description provided by the caller running across Route 9 toward Bay Harbor Motor Lodge. Officer Tsarnas stopped the subject and identified him as 32-year-old Christopher M. Burnett of Bowline Drive in Barnegat, NJ. It was determined that Christopher Burnett had been involved in a verbal argument prior to police arrival. Further investigation at the scene led to the arrest of Christopher Burnett on an outstanding Stafford Township Municipal Court warrant in the amount of $764. Christopher Burnett was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where he was processed and then transported to the Ocean County Correctional Facility in default of the bail.

• Warrant Arrest – On Friday, February 12, 2016, at 11:22 a.m., Officer Darrell Nick responded to a Beach Boulevard residence in the Forked River Beach section of the township for a report of a dispute. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 26-year-old Kyle A. Conroy of Beach Boulevard on an outstanding Brick Township Municipal Court warrant in the amount of $251. Kyle Conroy was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where he was processed and then released on his own recognizance by the Brick Township Municipal Court Clerk.

• Criminal Mischief – On Friday, February 12, 2016, 8:14 a.m., Officer Brian Holt responded to a Devon Street residence in the North Barnegat Pines section of Forked River for a report of criminal mischief. The victim reported that between 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, February 11, 2016 and 8:30 a.m. on Friday, February 12, 2016, an unknown person or persons shattered the driver side front door window of his vehicle. The vehicle was parked in the driveway of the residence at the time of the incident. The damage is estimated at $500.

• Warrant Arrest – On Thursday, February 12, 2016, at 2:31 a.m., Officer Christopher Meyler was on patrol when he observed a motor vehicle speeding on Bay Way in the Lanoka Harbor section of the township. Officer Meyler effectuated a motor vehicle stop on Bay Way near Brown Street. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 35-year-old Jonathan Radcliffebivins of Annapolis Road in South Toms River, NJ on an outstanding an Ocean County Sheriff’s Department warrant in the amount of $18,781.73 and an Ocean County Sheriff’s Department warrant in the amount of $23,639.69 for willful non-support. Jonathan Radcliffebivins was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where he was processed and then transported to the Ocean County Correctional Facility in default of the bail.

• Warrant Arrest – On Thursday, February 11, 2016, at 4:42 p.m., Officer Dimitrios Tsarnas conducted a motor vehicle stop. The driver, 36-year-old Ryan A. Burlew of Oakwood Drive in Forked River, NJ had a suspended driver’s license and an outstanding Lacey Township Municipal Court warrant in the bail amount of $500. Ryan Burlew was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where he was processed and released after posting bail. Ryan Burlew was charged with Driving While Suspended and Uninsured Vehicle.

• Warrant Arrest & Drug Possession – On Wednesday, February 10, 2016, at 10:14 p.m., Officer Anthony Sarno stopped a vehicle on Beverly Road in the South Barnegat Pines section of Forked River. The vehicle was being driven by 32-year-old Ryan M. Thomson of Beverly Road in Forked River, NJ. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of Ryan Thomson on a No Bail Atlantic County Sheriff’s Department Warrant for Drug Offenses. While in custody, Ryan Thomson was found to be in possession of fifty-four (54) wax folds of Heroin. The items were hidden in his waistband through a one inch tear on the inside of the waistband and then spread throughout the inside of the waistband by pushing the CDS inside. Four (4) Buprenorphine Hydrochloride and Naloxone Hydrochloride pills, a variation of Suboxone, were also found hidden in a condom inside the suspect’s waistband. Ryan Thomson was charged with 3^rd Degree Possession of Heroin and possession of Prescription Legend Drugs. Bail was set at $25,000 by Judge Damian Murray. Ryan Thomson was also issued summons for Failure to Signal Turn, Failure to Inspect, and Possession of CDS in a Motor Vehicle.

• Warrant Arrest – On Wednesday, February 10, 2016, at 5:40 p.m., Officer Christopher Meyler located 33-year-old Nicholas Kutassy of Merrimac Road in Forked River, NJ, who was wanted on an outstanding Lacey Township Municipal Court warrant in the amount of $10,000. The warrant had been issued earlier in the day for a theft and criminal mischief incident that had occurred at a family member’s house, located on Brick Avenue in Lanoka Harbor, NJ. Nicholas Kutassy was transported to Lacey Township Police Headquarters where he was processed and then transported to the Ocean County Correctional Facility in default of the bail.

• Burglary & Theft (Formal Charges) –  Through a collaborative investigation between Lacey Detectives and Detectives from the Berkeley Township Police Department, a search warrant was authorized on January 28, 2016, for Joshua Everett’s residence at 24 East Lacey Road in Forked River. Proceeds from multiple burglaries from Lacey Township and Berkeley Township were located. While processing evidence seized from the residence, items were located that were directly linked to victims of burglaries and thefts in late December of 2015 and January of 2016. The items included a prescription pill bottle in the name of a Letts Avenue victim, an Ocean County Library card signed on the back by a Penn Place victim, as well as two forms of identification from a Frazee Place victim. On February 10, 2016, Detective Robert Surtees of the Lacey Township Police Department signed three charges of Burglary against Joshua Everett for the unlawful entry and thefts from vehicles on Letts Avenue, Penn Place, and Frazee Place in Forked River.  Bail was set by JMC Damian Murray at $25,000 on an arrest warrant. Joshua Everett was later served and processed at the Ocean County Correctional Facility where he was previously lodged for burglaries out of Berkeley Township. Joshua Everett was also charged with multiple counts of burglary and theft out of Ocean Township (Waretown) in addition to the charges out of Lacey Township and Berkeley Township.

• Burglary & Theft – On Tuesday, February 9, 2016, at 7:53 a.m., Officer John Simonson responded to Shore Metric, 700 Challenger Way in the Lacey Township Business Park in reference to a report of a burglary and theft. The owner reported that between 6:30 p.m. on Monday, February 8, 2016 and 7:45 a.m. on Tuesday, February 9, 2016, an unknown person or persons entered his business by prying open an exterior window to the building. The suspect or suspects attempted to pry open a safe but were unsuccessful. A jar containing approximately $300 in loose change was reportedly stolen. The damage to the window is estimated at $350 and the damage to the safe is estimated at $250. On Tuesday, February 9, 2016, at 9:45 a.m., Officer Brian Holt responded to Play-Day-Place, 695 Challenger Way in the Lacey Township Business Park, in reference to a report of burglary and theft. The owners reported that at approximately 1:30 a.m., an unknown person or persons entered their business and pried open a cash register. Approximately $38 in cash and change was reported stolen. The suspect made entry into the business by prying the back door. The damage to the cash register is estimated $150. The Lacey Township Detective Bureau responded to continue the investigation. The Ocean County Sheriff’s Department Crime Scene Investigations Unit assisted at the scene.