Lacey Township is experiencing heavy traffic volume in the Route 9/Game Farm Road area due to a large funeral and expected procession.  Please be aware of heavy delays in that area until approximately 3:00pm.  Avoid the area if possible.

Motorists should use caution in the area of Deerhead Lake Drive and Lacey Rd due to a malfunctioning traffic signal.

Criminal Mischief- On Thursday, July 2, 2020, at 9:20 p.m., Officer Bruce Carver was closing Hebrew Park when he observed damage to the women’s bathroom.  The estimated cost of the damage is under $500.00.

DWI- On Saturday, July 4, 2020, at 12:39 a.m., Officers Scott Keefe and Anthony Ravallo responded to the area of Deerhead Lake Drive and Baldwin Street for a report of a vehicle striking a utility pole.  Officer Ravallo checked the area and located a silver, 2017 Audi A4 with front passenger side damage, parked on Deerhead Lake Drive near Crestwood Drive.  The driver of the vehicle, Timothy Lucas, 35, was asleep in the driver’s seat.  Investigation at the scene revealed that Lucas had struck a guard rail.  Lucas was arrested and charged with DWI, Reckless Driving, Failure to Maintain Lane, Leaving the Scene of an Accident, and Failure to Report an Accident.

Fire- On Saturday, July 4, 2020, at 11:01 p.m., Officer Bruce Carver responded to the area of East Hickory Drive for a report of brush fire.  Upon arrival, a small fire was observed in the marsh area adjacent to the road.  The Lanoka Harbor Fire Department arrived on scene and extinguished the fire.  The fire was not deemed suspicious.

Fire- On Sunday, July 5, 2020, 3:14 a.m., Officer Bruce Carver responded a Tampa Road residence for a report that the fence in the rear yard of that residence was on fire earlier.  Upon arrival, Officer Carver observed a burned, six foot section of stockade fence and additional damage to the neighbor’s deck. The Forked River Fire Department and the Ocean County Fire Marshal responded deeming the fire accidental.

Fire- On Monday, July 6, 2020, at 3:36 p.m., Officer Jeffrey Slota was dispatched to a Clifton Street home for an electrical fire.  It appeared that the fire originated at the home’s electrical service after being struck by lightning.  Minor damage was observed to the siding.

MVA- On Monday, July 6, 2020, at 4:21 p.m., Officers Daniel Riccardella and Elton Copes were dispatched to two separate motor vehicle accidents near Haines Street.  The same vehicle that was involved in both accidents fled the scenes prior to the officer’s arrival.  The car was later located on Gary Smith Way and had sustained front end damage consistent with the accidents.  Kristen Neil, 29, was issued numerous summonses that included Leaving the Scene of an Accident and Failure to Report an Accident.

Arrest- On Monday, July 6, 2020, at 9:30 p.m., Officers Scott Keefe and Anthony Sarno arrested Nicholas Battalla, 32, on Froghollow Road.  Battalla was lodged in the Ocean County Correctional Facility without bail for a warrant issued by the Lacey Municipal Court.

Arrest- On Tuesday, July 7, 2020, at 11:37 p.m., Officers Patrick Watkins and Anthony Sarno were dispatched to Predmore Avenue in reference to a road rage incident.  The caller reported that he was followed to his home by another driver who harassed and threatened him with a box cutter.  Police confirmed the incident with neighbors and were able to identify the actor through his vehicle registration.  The suspect, Brandon Desch, 22, of Brick, arrived voluntarily at headquarters and was charged with Terroristic Threats, Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, and Harassment.  Desch was lodged in the Ocean County Correctional Facility pending a Court appearance.

MVA- On July 8, 2020, at 6:28 p.m., officers responded to the intersection of Route 9 and Liberty Way for a motor vehicle accident.  Upon arrival, officers discovered that a Chrysler Sebring left the roadway striking a utility pole.  The driver, a Lanoka Harbor man, was airlifted with extensive injuries.  An adult female passenger was transported to a local trauma center for head injuries.  The cause of the accident is under investigation.

I am proud to announce that last month, Lacey Township Police Captain Patrick Ganley, badge #64, officially retired after 25 years of honorable service to the residents of Lacey Township.

Captain Ganley was hired by the Lacey Township Police Department on August 26, 1996, where he served in the capacity of Police Officer for nine years. On July 14, 2005, he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant and was assigned as a supervisor in the Patrol Division. On March 27, 2014, he was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant and was assigned to Administrative Services. On July 14, 2016, he was promoted to the rank of Captain, where he oversaw the daily operation of the police department, including, but not limited to training and internal affairs until he retired. Captain Ganley also served as a member of the Lacey Township Office of Emergency Management, and was very instrumental during Sandy. Prior to working for Lacey Township, he was employed by the Beach Haven Police Department.

During Captain Ganley’s distinguished career he received multiple awards and commendations, including, but not limited to, the Meritorious Service Bar. He served as a member of the Ocean County Regional SWAT Team, was a department firearms instructor and armorer, and was heavily involved in our department’s active shooter training program. Captain Ganley also served in several unique and different roles while working for the police department, including, but not limited to, mechanic, painter, electrician, builder, janitor, snow remover, and whatever else he needed to do to ensure the operations of the police department continued. Truly, he was dedicated to the operation of the police department, but more importantly dedicated to our community.

I would also like to note that Captain Ganley took his education very seriously. He is a graduate of the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police Contemporary Supervision Program, and holds both a Bachelor’s of Arts Degree and a Master’s Degree in Administrative Science from Fairleigh Dickinson University.

On a personal note, I will certainly miss Captain Ganley. Throughout my career he has been a colleague, peer, friend, mentor, a teammate, and more importantly a brother. I am sad to see him go, but happy and proud to see him enjoying a retirement so well deserved.

Captain Ganley, all of us at the Lacey Township Police Department thank you for your hard work and dedication to the residents of Lacey Township. We wish you the best in your retirement with your wife Tracey of 25 years and your dog Wilson.

Congratulations on your retirement Pat!!

Your Lacey Police/PBA #238 Family

-Chief Michael C. DiBella

The Lacey Township Police Department is currently investigating a serious motor vehicle accident on Western Blvd., which will be closed from Manchester Ave. to Veteran’s Blvd in Berkeley Township. The Lacey Township Police Department is asking all motorists to use an alternate route until the investigation is concluded.

Yesterday afternoon (July 14, 2020), members of the Lacey Elks Lodge #2518 arrived at police headquarters with a substantial donation of food from the Captain’s Inn for our police officers and dispatchers.  Once again, we would like to extend our utmost gratitude to the Lacey Elks Lodge for their donation and continued support of the Lacey Township Police Department. 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!!

Arrest- On Wednesday, July 15, 2020, at 8:41 a.m., Lacey Police dispatched officers to a Beverly Road home in reference to a suspicious male.  The callers stated that the unknown subject entered their home through the front door without knocking prompting them to call police.  Upon the arrival of officers, 29 year-old Robert Hyres, of Waretown was leaving in his vehicle.

Officers spoke with Hyres who reported that he entered the home because his father was inside doing an estimate.  During the investigation it was determined that no contractors were at the home and that Hyres was under the influence.  Hyres was placed under arrest and charged with DWI and Reckless Driving.  He was released on his own recognizance pending a court appearance.

MVA- On Thursday, July 9, 2020, at 4:08 p.m., officers were dispatched to Route 9 near the Ocean Township border.  Officers discovered that a vehicle had left the travel portion of the roadway and struck a utility pole.  The driver, a 34 year-old Barnegat man, suffered minor injuries.  The utility pole was replaced by JCP&L.

Fraud- On Thursday, July 9, 2020, at 9:22 p.m., Officer Randolph Plis met with a Lanoka Harbor resident in reference to a fraudulent purchase.  The victim reported that an unknown suspect used his personal information, including social security number, to open an AT&T account.  After opening the account, a cell phone valued at $1,500 was purchased.

Fire- On Friday, July 10, 2020, at 12:09 p.m., Officer Michael Baldasari was dispatched to a utility pole fire on Circle Drive.  It appeared that a broken branch landed on the wires causing the disruption.  The Forked River Fire Department and JCP&L also responded.

Arrest- On Friday, July 10, 2020, at 7:13 p.m., Officers Anthony Ravallo and Brian Holt responded to the area of Clearwater Drive for a suspicious male.  Officer Ravallo observed a subject matching the description near the Forked River Pharmacy who immediately fled on foot while discarding a sweatshirt and other items.  A search of the area yielded controlled dangerous substance and drug paraphernalia.  The suspect, Jeffrey Terhune, was located on Hollywood Boulevard and placed under arrest.  Terhune was charged with both offenses and lodged in the Ocean County Correctional Facility in accordance with bail reform.

Suspicious Incident- On Friday, July 15, 2020, at 4:13 p.m., Officer Michael Hein met with a caller in the parking lot of CVS.  The caller reported that when he exited the store he realized that the rear window of his vehicle was shattered.  The window was valued at $250.

Fire- On Wednesday, July 15, 2020, at 11:23 p.m., Officer Elton Copes was dispatched to Wendy’s for a reported kitchen fire.  Upon arrival, it appeared that the small fire was caused by grease and the restaurant sustained minimal damage.  The Ocean County Fire Marshal responded deeming the fire accidental.

Fraud- On Friday, July 17, 2020, at 11:10 a.m., Officer Kymberly Gudgeon met with a Forked River resident in reference to fraudulent activity.  The victim stated that she was contacted by a debt collection agency in reference to an AT&T account that was in arrears for $729.  Knowing that she did not have an AT&T account, she checked her credit and located several other additional accounts that she was unaware of.  Each account was opened using her social security number.

Arrest- On Friday, July 17, 2020, at 3:06 p.m., Officers Michael Baldasari and John Simonson were dispatched to Deerhead Lake in reference to an unresponsive man.  Officer Baldasari identified the man as Andrew Lupton, 36, and discovered him in possession of heroin.  Lupton was arrested and charged with Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Possession of More than 50 Grams of Marijuana.  In addition to the criminal charges, Lupton had an active warrant from the Berkeley Township Municipal Court.  He was lodged in the Ocean County Correctional Facility in accordance with bail reform.

Robbery- On Friday, July 17, 2020, at 6:50 p.m., an Alpine Street resident reported that he was robbed by knifepoint by two unknown individuals.  The victim conveyed that while inside a vehicle with the two men, he was robbed for $150. Detectives are investigating the allegations.

Fraud- On Saturday, July 18, 2020, at 10:09 a.m., Officers Kymberly Gudgeon and John Simonson met with a Lanoka Harbor resident in reference to fraudulent bank transfers.  The victim stated that she was contacted by a representative of Amazon who stated that her account had been compromised and an iPhone was purchased.  The victim allowed the caller to access her bank account so he could allegedly refund the money.  The suspect then made four separate withdrawals for a total of $1,000.

MVA- On Sunday, July 19, 2020, at 11:04 a.m., several officers were dispatched to Western Boulevard near Colgate Avenue.  Upon arrival, officers located a Lincoln MKX in the wooded area off the southbound lane.  The driver of the vehicle, and sole occupant, apparently lost control and struck numerous trees adjacent to the road.  The 75 year-old Bayville man was transported to a hospital for minor injuries.

Arrest- On Sunday, July 19, 2020, at 1:55 p.m., Officer Noah Schaffer responded to Manchester Police Department in reference to an arrest.  During an encounter, Manchester officers arrested William Bastedo, 54, for an outstanding Lacey Municipal Court warrant.  Bastedo was lodged in the Ocean County Correctional Facility after being processed.

Fire- On Monday, July 20, 2020, at 2:47 p.m., Officer Matthew D’Antonio responded to a Walnut Drive residence in reference to a shed fire.  It appeared that a fire had originated inside the shed and destroyed the shed’s contents.  The Ocean County Fire Marshal responded deeming the fire not suspicious as it started in a faulty air conditioner motor.

Fire- On Tuesday, July 21, 2020, at 6:17 p.m., Officer Andrew Slota was dispatched to a Fairview Lane residence in reference to a fire.  The fire began in shrubs near the home and caused minor damage to the siding prior to being extinguished.  The Ocean County Fire Marshal is investigating the incident and a cause has not been determined.

Burglary- On Wednesday, July 22, 2020, at 11:07 a.m., Officer Jeff Slota met with a Laurel Boulevard resident who reported a vehicle burglary.  The victim stated that an unknown person entered her unlocked vehicle during overnight hours stealing multiple items.  The theft is valued at approximately $1,200.

DWI with Accident- On Thursday, July 23, 2020, at 12:01 a.m., Officer Michael Hein responded to the intersection of Lacey Road and Mule Road for a one-car accident.  Once arriving, Officer Hein determined that the vehicle left the roadway striking a tree.  The driver, Anthony Carsillo, 26, was not injured and was determined to be under the influence.  Carsillo was released pending a Court appearance.

********** Emergency Response Practice Drill – Wibit Water Park – Tuesday, July 28th, 2020, 6:30 pm ***********

On Tuesday, July 28th, 2020, beginning at 6:30 p.m., members from our local Fire Departments, EMS Squads, and Underwater Rescue and Recovery Team (Dive Team), will be conducting an Emergency Response Practice Drill at the Wibit water park, located  at 5000 Lakeside Drive in Forked River (Second Lake).  Members from the Lacey Township Police Department and the Lacey Township Office of Emergency Management will be on scene observing the drill.  The drill will end at approximately 9:00 p.m. 

Thank you,

-Chief Michael C. DiBella

DWI– On Thursday, July 23, 2020, at 10:09 a.m., Officers Michael Verwey and Jeff Slota responded to Manhattan Bagel for a report of an unresponsive male subject in a vehicle.  Upon arrival, they discovered 54-year-old David Cerreta of Forked River.  During his arrest for DWI, Cerreta was found in possession of heroin.  Cerreta was charged with DWI, Reckless Driving, and Controlled Dangerous Substance in a Motor Vehicle.  He was also charged criminally with Possession of Heroin and Being Under the Influence of a Controlled Dangerous Substance.

Theft- On Thursday, July 23, 2020, at 4:38 p.m., Officer Michael Hein responded to a Pensacola Road home for a reported vehicle burglary. The complainant stated that someone had entered the trunk to her Honda Accord and stole an inflatable paddleboard. The paddle board was last seen on July 9, 2020.  The theft is valued at $400.

Other Public Service – On Friday, July 24, 2020 at 2:20 p.m., Officer Dan Ricciardella responded to the Lakeside Diner for a violation of the Governor’s Order, specifically dine-in services.  A complaint summons was issued for the violation.

Arrest- On Friday, July 24, 2020, at 6:07 p.m., Officer Michael Hein responded to Dollar Tree Express for a report of a suspicious male. Jacob S. Ochoa, 25, was found lying on the sidewalk in front of the store.  Ochoa was arrested after a full extradition warrant out of Pennsylvania was located. Ochoa was transported to the Ocean County Correctional Facility awaiting extradition.

Fraud- On Monday, July 27, 2020, at 7:11 p.m., Officer Brian Holt responded to Forked River Wine and Spirits for a fraud report. Employees reported that two males purchased $799.52 worth of liquor using Apple Pay.  A short time later, a female claiming to be the owner of the Apple Pay account contacted the store reporting that she did not authorize the charge.  The matter is being investigated.

Theft- On Wednesday, July 29, 2020 at 9:53 a.m., Officer Jason Lee responded to a Jay Street residence for a theft.  The victim reported that unknown person(s) stole his 2020 Yamaha Jet Ski and trailer from his driveway during the overnight hours.  The theft is valued in excess of $15,000.

Other Public Service- On Tuesday, July 29, 2020, at 10:10 p.m., Berkeley Township Police received a call regarding two canoers lost in the woods. It was discovered that the subjects were lost in the woods between Joseph Avenue in Lacey and Cedar Creek. With the assistance from the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department, a drone was used to locate the canoers in the wooded area in Lacey Township approximately 1,000 feet from the creek.

Weather Alert: The Lacey Township Police Department, in coordination with the Lacey Township Office of Emergency Management is continuing to monitor the progress of Tropical Storm Isaias and the expected impact to our area. The National Weather Service has issued a tropical storm warning for our area this evening, August 3, 2020 through tomorrow evening, August 4^th, 2020. Heavy rain and tropical storm force winds of 40 to 50 mph are expected, with wind gusts up to 60 mph, beginning tomorrow morning and ending during the afternoon or early evening. These winds are expected mainly along the coastal areas. Widespread moderate flooding is possible. Areas of concern are the low-lying areas east of Route 9 in Lacey Township. All residents living in the low-lying affected areas may voluntarily park their vehicles in Gille Park, 102 Manchester Avenue in Forked River. All residents that wish to park their vehicles in Gille Park should park in the parking lot on the southernmost side, adjacent to the hockey rink.

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

-Chief Michael C. DiBella

Please be advised Lacey Road is closed in both directions at Shepard Avenue due to wires down across the road. Until further notice please avoid the area. Thank you.

Please be advised Lacey Road is closed in both directions between Eagleswood  Place and Deerhead Lake Drive due to wires down across the road. Until further notice please avoid the area.

Also, please use caution as several traffic signals are out throughout Lacey Township due to the storm.

Thank you.

Beach Blvd will be closed to traffic in both directions between Waikiki Dr and Molokai Dr until further notice, due to ongoing police operations. Residents in the area are asked to shelter in place in their homes until advised otherwise.

DWI- On Thursday, July 30, 2020, at 11:33 a.m., Officer Jason Lee stopped a motor vehicle on Route 9 for no license plates.  During the stop the driver of the vehicle, James Moriarty, 61, was placed under arrest for being impaired.  Moriarty was issued summonses for DWI, Refusal to Submit to Breath Testing, Reckless Driving, Unregistered Vehicle, and Open Container in a Motor Vehicle.  The driver was released pending a Court appearance.

Shoplifting- On Friday, July 31, 2020, at 11:07 a.m., Officer Michael Verwey responded to Walmart in reference to an attempted theft.  Store asset protection personnel reported that on the evening prior, a male suspect attempted to return a 75” television without a receipt.  When customer service questioned the purchase the male left the store without the television or a refund.  Surveillance footage showed the male suspect enter the store with an empty cart, place the television on it, and proceed directly to the service counter where he attempted to get a refund.  The investigation in continuing.

DWI- On Saturday, August 1, 2020, at 1:26 a.m., Officer Scott Keefe conducted a motor vehicle stop on Beach Boulevard.  The stop was initiated after the vehicle failed to maintain lane and was observed at 50 mph in a 35 mph zone.  During the stop, Officer Keefe arrested the driver, Lewis Weaver, 19, for being under the influence.  Weaver was charged with DWI, Refusal to Submit to Breath Testing, Failure to Maintain Lane, Speeding, Reckless Driving, and Open Container in a Motor Vehicle.  He was released pending a Court appearance.

Theft- On Sunday, August 2, 2020, at 4:50 p.m., Officer Matthew D’Antonio met with a resident of Conifer Drive who reported a theft.  The victim reported that an unknown person entered her property during the afternoon and stole a bicycle from the side of her home.  The Trek bicycle is valued at $300.

Theft- On Monday, August 3, 2020, at 7:49 a.m., Officer Matthew D’Antonio responded to St. Pius in reference to a theft.  The caller reported that an unknown person stole a Vatican flag from outside the church.  The theft is valued at $125.

Dispute- On Monday, August 3, 2020, at 11:18 a.m., officers responded to Drew Avenue in reference to a physical dispute.  Officers met with two men, 37 and 65, who had engaged in a physical altercation after an argument ensued.  One subject was treated at the scene for minor injuries and both parties were referred to the Court to pursue their own complaints.

Burglary- On Monday, August 3, 2020, at 5:26 p.m., Officers Randolph Plis and Brian Holt responded to an Enterprise Drive residence for a burglary.  The caller reported that when he arrived at the home, he found the rear door open and an unknown teenage male inside.  The caller reported that the male suspect fled when he realized that the caller was present.  The detective bureau is conducting an investigation.

Storm Damage- On the afternoon of Tuesday, August 4, 2020, officers responded to over 100 calls for service during an eight-hour period.  The calls occurred during a severe storm that downed trees and wires causing several fires.

Burglary- On Wednesday, August 5, 2020, at 3:20 a.m., a delivery driver informed police of a burglary at the Lacey Mall.  Officers located a broken window at the Dollar Tree Express and determined that unknown suspect(s) entered the store.  Once inside, the suspect damaged cash registers while attempting to access the cash drawers although nothing appeared stolen.  The damage is estimated at $3,000.

Fraud- On Thursday, August 6, 2020, at 2:29 p.m., Officer Andrew Slota was dispatched to a Beach Boulevard residence in reference to an attempted burglary.  The homeowner reported that an unknown subject attempted to gain access into the home by prying the rear storm door.  The damage is estimated at $150.

Theft- On Thursday, August 6, 2020, at 8:40 p.m., employees of Lacey Shell contacted police reporting a theft.  Officer Elton Copes responded and was told that a red sedan entered the gas lane and requested that the vehicle be filled.  After the driver exited the 7-Eleven store, he told the attendant that he did not request the vehicle to be filled with gas and left without payment.

Fire- On Friday, August 7, 2020, at 9:29 p.m., Officer Scott Keefe was dispatched to Route 9 near Beach Boulevard for a utility pole fire.  The caller reported that sparks were initially seen coming from the transformer prior to a fire starting at the top of the pole.  Forked River Fire Department and JCP&L responded.

Other Public Service – On Saturday, August 8, 2020, at 1:19 p.m., Officer Andrew Slota responded to the Lakeside Diner in reference to a violation of Governor Murphy’s Executive Orders.  The owner confirmed that dine-in services were being offered and he was issued a summons for the same.

DWI- On Saturday, August 8, 2020, at 10:15 p.m., Officers Elton Copes and Randolph Plis responded to Taylor Lane near Route 9 for a report of a MVA involving a motorcycle. The operator of the motorcycle was alert and conscious but suffered road rash to his upper body. It was determined at the scene that the operator, Michael Harris, 59, was under the influence.  Harris was charged with multiple offenses including DWI.

Fraud- On Sunday, August 9, 2020, at 5:00 p.m., Officer Randolph Plis met with a Forked River resident who reported fraudulent activity.  The caller stated that she was contacted by Apple Incorporated in reference to an unknown person attempting to gain access to her computer.  The victim allowed the supposed Apple employee to enter her profile and change passwords.  Shortly afterward, the victim’s credit card information was used to make a $500 purchase.

DWI- On Tuesday, August 11, 2020, at 12:20 p.m., Officers Michael Hutman and Keith Pearce responded to the intersection of Hillwood Road and Sweetwood Drive for a report of a traffic accident.  Officers discovered that Richard Wagner Jr., 52, had collided with a parked car.  It was further determined that Wagner was under the influence and was placed under arrest.  Wagner was issued summonses for DWI, Reckless Driving, and Failing to Maintain Lane.

DWI- On Tuesday, August 11, 2020, at 9:39 p.m., officers working traffic control on Route 9 reported that a driver stopped in traffic for the road construction appeared to be under the influence. Officers Dallas Gant and Brian Holt responded to the scene and determined that the driver, 32-year-old Michelle Koeck was under the influence. Koeck was arrested and charged with DWI and Reckless Driving.

While we continue to remain humbled by the outpouring show of support from our community, we would like to recognize Spring Oak Assisted Living, 601 Route 9 North, Lanoka Harbor.

Yesterday afternoon (August 13, 2020), Spring Oak Assisting Living provided several pizzas for the members of our police department. We extend our utmost gratitude to Spring Oak Assisted Living for their donation and support of the Lacey Township Police Department. 

Thank you Spring Oak Assisted Living.

The Lacey Township Police Department is currently seeking certified applicants for the position of Class II Special Law Enforcement Officer. Candidates must possess a current New Jersey Police Training Commission Certification as a Class II Special Law Enforcement Officer from an approved Police Academy.

Essential Duties:

The Special Law Enforcement Officer Class II (SLEO) is a part-time member of the Police Department and will work part-time hours throughout the year.

Qualifications:

• Be a United States Citizen
• Be a resident of New Jersey
• A current New Jersey Police Training Commission Certification as a Class II Special Law Enforcement Officer from an approved Police Academy
• A high school diploma or GED equivalent is required
• Hold a valid New Jersey driver’s license
• Have the ability to read, write and speak the English language clearly and intelligently
• Have and demonstrate good moral character and have not been convicted of any crime constituting an indictable offense or any offense involving moral turpitude; verified by a background investigation
• Undergo a complete background investigation
• Pass an oral interview
• Pass a psychological examination
• Pass a drug test

Applications may be picked up at the Lacey Township Police Department, 808 Lacey Road, Forked River. Interested applicants must submit an application no later than September 14, 2020.

If anyone has any questions regarding this announcement, you may contact Detective Lieutenant Christopher Cornelius at 609-693-6636 ext. 2566.

The Lacey Township Police Department is an equal opportunity employer.

Thank you,

-Chief Michael C. DiBella

Burglary- On Thursday, August 13, 2020, at 9:32 a.m., Officer Kymberly Gudgeon responded to a Beach Boulevard home in reference to a theft.  The 95 year-old victim reported that while she slept during the overnight hours someone stole items from her purse and jewelry box.  Detective Dalziel and the Ocean County Crime Scene Unit processed the home discovering evidence of a burglary.  During the six-day investigation, detectives recovered a portion of the proceeds and issued an arrest warrant for a neighbor, Joseph Hover, 33.  On Tuesday, August 18, 2020, Hover was arrested by Berkeley Township Police.  The arrest led to a search warrant being executed at Hover’s home resulting in several pieces of the victim’s jewelry were recovered.  Hover was lodged in the Ocean County Correctional Facility after being charged with Burglary, Theft, and Fraudulent Use of a Credit Card.  Berkeley Township Police charged Hover with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia after empty wax folds, used to package heroin, and a hypodermic syringe were found in his possession while being arrested.

Fraud- On Thursday, August 13, 2020, at 10:41 a.m., Officer Michael Baldasari met with a Forked River resident in reference to a fraudulent purchase.  The caller reported that an unknown person accessed her PayPal account to make a purchase and have it shipped to a Miami address.  The $97 purchase was cancelled prior to shipment.

Contempt- On Friday, August 14, 2020, at 12:53 p.m., officers were dispatched to the Lakeside Diner after receiving a complaint.  While there, employees were observed serving customers inside the diner in violation of the Governor’s Order.  A summons was issued for the offense.  Officers responded again on Monday, August 17, 2020, for the same violation.  A second summons was issued.  On Monday, August 24, 2020, the owner of the Lakeside Diner, Alfred Brindisi, was charged with Contempt of a Court Order.  The complaint was served after the diner continued to offer indoor dining in violation of a Court Order issued by a Superior Court Judge.

Arrest- On Saturday, August 15, 2020, at 7:27 a.m., Sergeant John McKee conducted a motor vehicle stop on Route 9 for a cell phone violation.  During the stop it was determined that the driver had an outstanding warrant.  Calogero Marchese, 39, was arrested and transported on the strength of the $500 warrant issued by the Manchester Township Municipal Court.  He was released after posting bail.

DWI- On Monday, August 17, 2020, at 11:24 p.m., construction workers on Route 9 reported that they were almost struck by a passing vehicle that then parked on the shoulder.  Officers Patrick Watkins and Anthony Ravallo responded and located the vehicle that was being operated by Samantha Jenssen, 23, of Manahawkin.  During the investigation, Jenssen was placed under arrest for being impaired.  Jenssen was charged with DWI and Reckless Driving.

Fraud- On Tuesday, August 18, 2020, at 2:01 p.m., Officer Kymberly Gudgeon met with a Lanoka Harbor resident for a fraud report.  The caller reported that an unknown person used her personal information to open a Bank of America account although the contact information was for an unknown email address.  The account was cancelled prior to any transactions.

Theft- On Thursday, August 20, 2020, at 10:54 a.m., Officer John Simonson met with a resident of Beach Boulevard who reported a theft.  The victim reported a mermaid statue missing from the front yard of her home.  The theft is valued at $200.

Fire- On Sunday, August 23, 2020, at 1:24 a.m., officers responded to a Continental Court residence for a reported structure fire.  The call came in after occupants of the home discovered flames in the rear of the house.  Multiple fire departments responded to extinguish the fire that led to a large portion of the home being consumed and deemed inhabitable.  Detective Dalziel and the Ocean County Marshal’s Office are investigating the fire’s cause and origin.

Arrest- On Tuesday, August 23, 2020, at 10:36 a.m., Lacey and Berkeley detectives arrested a Bronx, New York resident during a fraud investigation.  Prior to the arrest, detectives were investigating a matter involving a purchase of six iPhones by an unknown suspect.  The online purchase was made using a stolen identity.  On the morning of the arrest, the phones were delivered to a Saltspray Drive residence.  As the courier arrived, a vehicle driven by Anjoel Rojas, 27, arrived simultaneously.  Rojas identified himself as the homeowner and accepted the package.  After the delivery driver left, detectives stopped Rojas and placed him under arrest.  Rojas was charged with Theft of Moveable Property and Conspiracy.  The phones, valued at $4,194, were recovered.

Burglary- On Tuesday, August 25, 2020, at 1:20 p.m., Officer Jason Lee met with a Sheffield Drive resident who reported a theft from his vehicle.  The victim conveyed that during the overnight hours, an unknown person(s) entered his vehicle and stole various items.  The items were valued at $268.

Theft- On Wednesday, August 26, 2020, at 5:33 p.m., Officer Michael Baldasari responded to Oxford Road for a stolen trailer.  The victim reported that on Tuesday, August 25, 2020, at 4:40 p.m., his neighbor’s Ring video camera recorded a red Chevrolet pickup truck leaving his residence, towing his utility trailer.  The trailer is valued at $1,500.