DUI – On Thursday, January 14, 2021, at 11:58 p.m., Officers Brian Holt and Bruce Carver responded to a motor vehicle crash on Arlington Avenue.  Officers discovered that a vehicle driven by Christopher Kaminsky, 37, collided with a parked car while using his cell phone.  During the investigation, Kaminsky was deemed under the influence and arrested.  Prior to being released, Kaminsky was issued summonses for DUI, Reckless Driving, Use of a Cell Phone, and Refusal to Submit to Breath Tests.

Fraud – On Friday, January 15, 2021, at 1:19 p.m., Officer Kymberly Gudgeon met with a Lanoka Harbor business owner reporting fraudulent activity to his checking account.  The victim stated that an unknown actor cashed two counterfeit checks against his account.  The theft totaled $4,959.

Theft – On Friday, January 15, 2021, at 5:00 p.m., Officer Brian Holt responded to Walmart where he met with a 75 year-old Waretown resident.  The female victim reported that after completing her shopping earlier in the day she went to the register and was unable to locate her wallet.  Assuming that she left it at home, she returned there and discovered that her credit card was used while she was shopping at Walmart.  Store surveillance video captured a male and a female couple following the victim closely assumingly attempting to steal the victim’s wallet.  The video later shows the female suspect using the victim’s credit card at the register to purchase items valued at $664.40.  All attempts are being made to identify the actors.

Fraud- On Tuesday, January 19, 2021, at 2:06 p.m., Officer Scott Anderson met with a Forked River resident in reference to unknown suspect(s) gaining access to her email.  The suspect allegedly sent out an email describing that a mutual friend was diagnosed with cancer.  The suspect then asked that each friend purchase a gift card and forward a photo of the gift card pin information to help the victim with her finances.  Two victims purchased $300 target gift cards in attempt to help.  Only one card’s information was turned over before it was determined to be a scam.

Theft– On Thursday, January 21, 2021 at 10:41 a.m., Officer John Simonson responded to a local church in Lanoka Harbor for report of a theft.  It was reported that a motor vehicle on the premises had the catalytic converter removed.  The value for the loss and damage is estimated at $1,500.  Investigation is ongoing.

Shoplifting– On Saturday, January 23, 2021 at 6:51 p.m., Officer Brian Holt responded to Walmart and met with Loss Prevention in reference to a theft.  It was determined that Cheryl Rizzo, 65, had concealed merchandise and attempted to exit the store without payment.  Rizzo was arrested and charged with Shoplifting.  Rizzo was released on her own recognizance pending a court appearance.

Shoplifting– On Saturday, January 23, 2021 at 7:47 p.m., Officer Keith Pearce responded to Walmart and met with Loss Prevention in reference to a theft.  It was determined that Brian Varner, 50, had attempted to exit the store without payment for merchandise.  Varner was arrested and charged with Shoplifting.  Varner was released on his own recognizance pending a court appearance.

Shoplifting– On Sunday, January 24, 2021 at 3:28 p.m., Officer Matthew DAntonio responded to Walmart and met with Loss Prevention in reference to a theft.  It was determined that Carolyn McCullough-Yogg, 34, had attempted to exit the store without payment for merchandise.  Carolyn was arrested and charged with Shoplifting.  Carolyn was released on her own recognizance pending a court appearance.

Shoplifting– On Sunday, January 24, 2021 at 4:31 p.m., Officer Brian Holt responded to Home Depot and met with Loss Prevention in reference to a theft.  Loss Prevention reported that a shoplifter concealed over $100 worth of merchandise in a backpack, and then fled the store traveling on a bicycle.  Attempts are being made to identify the suspect.

Theft– On Monday, January 25, 2021 at 11:35 a.m., Officer Frederick Anderson responded to a local marina in Forked River for a report of a theft.  The owner reported a motor vehicle on the premises had the catalytic converter removed.  The value for the loss and damage is estimated at $1,000.  Investigation is ongoing.

Criminal Mischief– On Monday, January 25, 2021 at 5:43 p.m., Officer Anthony Sarno responded to a residence on Lakeside Drive North for report of criminal mischief.  The resident reported a parked motor vehicle had been “keyed” which included a five foot long scratch.  The value of the damage is estimated at $2,000.

DWI– On Wednesday, January 27, 2021, at 11:49 p.m., Officer Scott Keefe responded to a fast food restaurant on Route 9 for a report of a suspected intoxicated driver in a golf cart attempting to place an order at the drive-thru window.  During the investigation, the driver Henry Fallas, 42, was deemed under the influence and arrested.  Prior to being released, Fallas was issued numerous summonses to include DWI, Reckless Driving, and Refusal to Submit to Breath Tests.

*** The National Weather Service Has Issued the Below Winter Storm Watch ***

A WINTER STORM WATCH IS NOW IN EFFECT FROM SUNDAY EVENING, JANUARY 31st  THROUGH LATE MONDAY EVENING, FEBRUARY 1, 2021

* WHAT...Heavy snow possible. Total snow accumulations of 5 to 11 inches possible. Winds could gust as high as 45 mph.

*WHERE…Portions of central, northern and southern New Jersey and southeast Pennsylvania.

* WHEN…From Sunday evening through late Monday night.

* IMPACTS…Travel could be very difficult to impossible. The hazardous conditions could impact the morning or evening commute.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS…Snow will develop west to east late Sunday and last through late Monday or early Tuesday. A period of wintry mix or rain could occur Sunday night and Monday morning, especially along and near the coast, before turning back to snow Monday evening. The highest snowfall rates are most likely to occur Sunday night through Monday morning.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

Monitor the latest forecasts for updates on this situation.

Please remember to remove all parked vehicles from snow covered roadways in Lacey Township as required by ordinance.  Keeping the roadways clear during and after a snow fall is necessary so the Lacey Township Department of Public Works can effectively clear the snow from the streets.   Furthermore, please make sure all portable basketball hoops, garbage cans, etc. are removed from the roadway and secured.

Thank you.

-Chief Michael C. DiBella

*** Coastal Flood Warning ***

The National Weather Service has issued a Coastal Flood Warning for 7am Monday morning, February 1st, 2021 through 5pm Tuesday evening, February 2, 2021.

* WHAT...One to two feet of inundation above ground level expected in low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways.

* WHERE...Middlesex, Western Monmouth, Eastern Monmouth, Ocean, Coastal Ocean and Southeastern Burlington.

* WHEN...From 7 AM Monday to 5 PM EST Tuesday.

* IMPACTS...At this level, widespread roadway flooding occurs in coastal and bayside communities and along inland tidal waterways. Many roads become 
  impassable. Some damage to vulnerable structures may begin to occur.


PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS

A Coastal Flood Warning means that moderate or major tidal flooding is occurring or imminent. 

Do not drive your vehicle through flood waters. The water may be deeper than you think it is. You will be putting yourself in danger and your vehicle 
may be damaged, leading to costly repairs.

Visit the Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Service at water.weather.gov/ahps for additional water level and flood impact information for your local tide gauge.

Lacey Township residents living in the low-lying affected areas may voluntarily park their vehicles in Gille Park, located at 102 Manchester Avenue in Forked River. All residents that wish to park their vehicles in Gille Park should park in the middle parking lot, adjacent to the playground and basketball court. Please ensure that your vehicle is locked.

Thank you.

The above photo depicts Lacey Police Chief Michael C. DiBella (center) being presented with a donation from the Woman’s Club of Lacey Inc., on the afternoon of February 2nd, 2021.  Chief DiBella accepted the donation on behalf of the Lacey Municipal Police Foundation. 

On Tuesday, February 2, 2021, the Woman’s Club of Lacey Inc., including, Co-Presidents Shirley Houlihan and Beverly Keubler, along with members Lillis Campbell and Diane Ash, presented the Lacey Municipal Police Foundation with a check in the amount of $1000 to help support the Lacey Township Police Department’s body camera program. The check was accepted on behalf of the Lacey Municipal Police Foundation by Police Chief Michael C. DiBella. The donation will be used toward the on-going costs of the Police Department’s body camera program, including, but not limited to, the purchase of new body cameras.

Thanks to the generous support of many local businesses, organizations, and residents, the Lacey Township Police Department was able to officially begin our body camera program in February 2020. Presently, all uniformed Patrol Sergeants and Police Officers are assigned and required to use their body camera during their shift. The Police Department is planning to expand this program in 2021 with the purchase of additional body cams and equipment. Furthermore, the State of New Jersey has recently passed legislation that will soon require on-duty uniformed patrol officers to carry a body cam.

I want to thank the Woman’s Club of Lacey for their generous donation toward the body camera program, it is very much appreciated. In addition, I would once again like to thank all of the other organizations, businesses, and residents who supported this cause from the beginning and made our program possible. We certainly could not have done it without your support.

If anyone has any questions regarding the Lacey Municipal Police Foundation, you may contact Chief Michael C. DiBella at 609-693-6636 ext. 2511. If anyone has any questions regarding the Lacey Township Police Department’s body camera program, you may contact Lieutenant Christopher Cornelius at 609-693-6636 ext. 2566.

Thank you,

Chief Michael C. DiBella

Fire- On Saturday, January 30, 2021, at 6:18 a.m., Officer John Simonson was dispatched to a Heatherington Court residence for an alarm.  Members of the Lanoka Harbor Fire Department found that a fire had initiated at the home’s boiler that caused minimal damage.  The Ocean County Fire Marshal deemed the fire not suspicious.

Arrest- On Sunday, January 31, 2021, at 11:35 a.m., Officer Matthew D’Antonio responded to Walmart in reference to a shoplifter.  While there, it was determined that a patron, Robert Carsten, Jr., failed to scan merchandise and attempted to exit the store.  Carsten, 57, was placed under arrest and later released pending a Court appearance.  The items were valued at $52.30.

Arrest- On Sunday, January 31, 2021, at 12:17 p.m., Officer Matthew D’Antonio was dispatched to Walmart for a detained shoplifter.  Asset Protection reported that a shopper did not scan all of the items to be purchased and attempted to exit the store.  Sarah Kroeger, 34, was charged with Shoplifting and released on her own recognizance.  The merchandise was valued at $90.25.

MVA- On Monday, February 1, 2021, at 6:55 a.m., a Bamber Lake Fire Department vehicle slid in icy conditions and struck a utility pole.  The driver was transported to the hospital for minor injuries.  A portion of Dover Road was closed temporarily while JCP&L made repairs.

MVA- On Monday, February 1, 2021, at 3:57 p.m., Officers Keith Pearce and John Simonson were dispatched to Route 539 for a vehicle that collided with a utility pole.  Manchester Police arrived at the scene first and advised that the driver suffered head and arm injuries.  After his transport for medical assistance, hospital staff contacted Stafford Police and advised that the 29 year-old Trenton man was in possession of a concealed handgun.  Further investigation is pending between agencies.

Arrest- On Monday, February 1, 2021, at 7:51 p.m., Officers Bruce Carver and Martin Julian responded to a Buena Vista Road home following up on a hit and run accident from the day prior.  While there, officers determined that the driver who left the scene was Derek Madure, 31.  Officers discovered that Madure was wanted by Howell Township and Spotswood Municipal Courts for failure to appear.  Madure was arrested and released after satisfying $1,500 bail.  He was issued summonses for Driving Suspended, Failure to Report an Accident, Leaving the Scene of an Accident, Uninsured Motor Vehicle, and Unregistered Motor Vehicle.

Arrest- On Wednesday, February 3, 2021, at 3:09 p.m., Officer Michael Hein and Dylan Emmett were dispatched to the Lacey Mall in reference to an assault.  The victim, who had temporarily lost consciousness, reported that he was punched by another adult male.  Officers were able to identify the actor and apprehend him several hours later in the same vicinity.  Joshua Dinis, 26, was charged with Aggravated Assault and Resisting Arrest.

*** The National Weather Service Has Issued the Below Winter Weather Advisory for our area ***

A WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY WILL BE IN EFFECT FROM 4AM TO 7PM ON SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 7TH, 2021

* WHAT...Wet snow expected. Total snow accumulations of up to 4
  inches.

* WHERE...Portions of central and southern New Jersey, northeast
  Maryland and central Delaware.

* WHEN...From 4 AM to 7 PM EST Sunday.

* IMPACTS...Travel could be dangerous on Sunday morning into early
  Sunday afternoon.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Snow, at times heavy, will overspread the
  area on Sunday morning, with snow potentially mixing with rain
  at times particularly near the coast. Snow is expected to clear
  out from SW-NE Sunday afternoon.


PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Slow down and use caution while traveling.

The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can
be obtained by calling 5 1 1.

-Chief Michael C. DiBella

*** Update, West Lacey Road is now open in both directions ***

West Lacey Road between Dover Road and Schoolhouse will be closed until further notice due to a motor vehicle crash. Please avoid the area.

Thank you.

The above photo depicts (from left to right) Officer Irving Excel #3, Chief Patrick J. Geraghty #1 (Retired), John “Herb” Zahn, Captain Albert Chick #5 (Retired), Sergeant John C. Parker #2 (Retired), Officer Elmer J. Brown #4 (July 1961).

The Lacey Township Police Department regrets to announce the passing of former Lacey Township Special Police Officer Elmer J. Brown, #4, who passed away on January 25, 2021 at the age of 94.  Officer Brown began his service with Lacey Twp. Police in 1959, as he was one of five originating members, who were appointed at the establishment of our agency.  The original five members of Lacey Police were hired, part time, as Special Police Officers.  This continued until approximately 1961, when Chief Patrick J. Geraghty, badge #1, established a full time Police Department.  The title of, “Special Officer,” differs from the current Special Officer title, which we utilize today.

Officer Brown was born in Milltown, NJ, prior to moving to Ocean County, and was a well respected, long time, Lacey Twp. Resident.  In addition to his service with Lacey Police, Officer Brown was employed by the State of New Jersey at the Forked River State Marina, where he worked as a Maintenance Worker and Boat Operator.  Officer Brown often enjoyed gardening, and crafting in his workshop.

We thank Officer Brown for his dedicated commitment and service to our community, and extend our sincere condolences to his family.

Special Police Officer Elmer J. Brown, #4
1927 – 2021

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Officer Brown’s memory can be made to the Ocean County Animal Shelter at 360 Haywood Road, Manahawkin, NJ 08050.

**************************************************************************************************************************************************************************

I would like to thank Lacey Township Police Officer Michael Hutman for providing this information and photo.

-Chief Michael C. DiBella

*** A WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL NOON TOMORROW *** 

* WHAT...Snow expected. Total snow accumulations of 3 to 5 inches.

* WHERE…Portions of southern New Jersey, southeast, Pennsylvania and northern Delaware.

* WHEN…Until noon EST Thursday. * IMPACTS…Plan on slippery road conditions. The hazardous conditions could impact the morning commute.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS…Snow is forecast to move in from the west by late this evening, continuing through the Thursday morning commute, before shifting east of the area by the midday hours. Although snow rates will not be particularly high, temperatures are expected to be below freezing, so roads and sidewalks are expected to become snow-covered.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

Slow down and use caution while traveling. The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1.

*****************************************************************************************************************************************************

Please remember to remove all parked vehicles from snow covered roadways in Lacey Township as required by ordinance.  Keeping the roadways clear during and after a snow fall is necessary so the Lacey Township Department of Public Works can effectively clear the snow from the streets.   Furthermore, please make sure all portable basketball hoops, garbage cans, etc. are removed from the roadway and secured.

Thank you.

-Chief Michael C. DiBella

Shoplifting- On Saturday, February 6, 2021, at 5:43 p.m., Officers Jason Lee and Brian Holt responded to Walmart for a report of shoplifting. Loss Prevention advised that 34 year-old Nicole Finnica was in custody for not scanning all of her items at the self-checkout. The total theft was $30.39. Finnica was charged with Shoplifting and released on a summons.

Shoplifting- On Saturday, February 6, 2021, at 6:22 p.m., Officers Andrew Slota and Michael Hutman responded to Walmart for a report of a female shoplifter in custody.  While there, officers arrested Jennifer Alvarez, 42, after she failed to scan several merchandise totaling $64.72 at the self-checkout.  Jennifer was charged and released pending a Court appearance.

Shoplifting- On Saturday, February 6, 2021, at 8:15 p.m., Officers Brian Holt and Anthony Ravallo arrested Tara K. Brown, 34, charging her with shoplifting.  Brown failed to scan items valued at $98.91 at Walmart’s self-checkout.  Tara was released on her own recognizance pending a Court appearance.

Shoplifting- On Saturday, February 6, 2021, at 8:15 p.m., Officers Randolph Plis, Martin Julian, and SLEO II Chris Triano responded to Walmart for a report of two female shoplifters in custody.  Loss Prevention detained Evalise J. Luciano, 20, and Melissa Greene, 52, after they failed to scan several items valued at $244.12.  Both actors were arrested and transported to police headquarters where they were charged with shoplifting and released in accordance with bail reform.

DWI- On Saturday, February 6, 2021, at 8:34 p.m., Officers Anthony Ravallo and SLEO II Chris Triano, responded to East Lacey Road for a report of an overturned vehicle with entrapment.  Investigation at the scene revealed that Jessica Frandsen, 42, was traveling westbound on East Lacey Road when she collided with a parked vehicle.  During the investigation, Jessica was deemed under the influence and arrested.  She was later released after being charged with DWI and Reckless Driving.

Arrest- On Sunday, February 7, 2021, at 10:45 a.m., detectives and a patrol officer conducted a stop as a suspicious vehicle exited the Lacey Business Park.  Detectives observed the vehicle, driven by Bernard Kappen, 29, parked in a remote location and suspected a criminal offense.  During the stop, officers discovered several catalytic converters in Kappen’s truck that appeared to be cut from other vehicles.  Detectives returned to the area where Kappen was parked and discovered that a nearby vehicle was missing a catalytic converter matching one in Kappen’s vehicle.  Kappen was placed under arrested and charged with Theft of Moveable Property and Criminal Mischief.  Kappen was released pending a Court appearance.

MV Accident- On Sunday, February 7, 2021, at 1:40 p.m., Officer John Simonson was dispatched to a one-car motor vehicle accident near the intersection of Lacey Road and Mule Road.  The driver, a 32 year-old man who sustained no injuries, apparently slid under snowy conditions striking a utility pole.  Lacey Road was closed temporarily while the pole was replaced.

Arrest- On Monday, February 8, 2021, at 11:48 p.m., Officers Randolph Plis, Brian Holt, and Bruce Carver responded to McDonalds for the report a possibly intoxicated driver who almost struck the building.  While speaking with the driver, officers observed marijuana inside the vehicle.  During the arrest of the driver, Trevor May, 29, officers discovered brass knuckles in his pocket.  May was charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of a Weapon, and Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose.  May was also charged with Possessing a Controlled Substance in a Motor Vehicle.  May was released in accordance with bail reform.

Due to unforeseen circumstances, the Lacey Township Police Department Records Bureau will be closed until next Tuesday, February 23, 2021. We apologize for the inconvenience.

DUI- On Saturday, February 13, 2021, at 9:05 p.m., the Lacey Township Police Department received a report of  a male driver slumped over the steering wheel inside a parked vehicle in front of the Dollar Tree, 344 Route 9 North.  Upon arrival, Officer Scott Keefe observed the vehicle drive off and conducted a motor vehicle stop.  Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the driver, Franklin Biddar, 32, of Forked River, for DUI. He was processed and later released pursuant to John’s Law.

Criminal Mischief- On Sunday, February 14, 2021, at 1:14 a.m., Officer Elton Copes responded to a Tappan Street address for a report of criminal mischief.  The victim reported that both rear tires of their vehicle were flat and possibly slashed.  The victim reported possible suspects and Officer Copes is continuing the investigation.

Criminal Mischief- On Monday, February 15, 2021, at 7:38 p.m., Officer Martin Julian received a report of criminal mischief to a vehicle, which took place in the parking lot of the victim’s place of business on Route 9 in Forked River.  The victim reported that someone damaged the vehicle by scratching the exterior panels.  The victim reported a possible suspect and Officer Julian is continuing the investigation. The damage is estimated at $4000.

Arrest- On Thursday, February 18, 2021, at 9:48 p.m., Officers Anthony Sarno and Robert Duffy responded to a Lanoka Harbor address, to serve an outstanding Ocean Township warrant for Kimberly Muff, 47.  Officer Sarno subsequently arrested Kimberly Muff for the warrant and located a quantity of CDS in her possession.  She was transported to police headquarters, processed and criminally charged.  Ocean Township Police Department responded and took custody of Kimberly Muff.

On Sunday, February 7, 2021, Lacey Township Police detectives arrested Bernard K. Kappen, 29, of Forked River, after he was observed leaving the rear of a business in the Lacey Business Park.  The investigation on that date revealed that Kappen had driven his vehicle to the isolated area in the rear of the Business Park where he cut and removed a catalytic converter from a vehicle.  The damaged vehicle was owned and utilized by a local business.  Kappen was stopped while exiting the Business Park and found with the stolen catalytic converter in the bed of his vehicle. He was on his way to sell the catalytic converter to a recycling business.

After his arrest, Detectives continued the investigation, which revealed that Bernard Kappen was involved in three additional and previously reported thefts of catalytic converters within Lacey Township.  The thefts included catalytic converters being cut and removed from vehicles parked at a local business, a local marina, and a local church in Lacey Township.  In all instances the vehicles damaged were used by the owners to further operate their businesses or establishments.

On Thursday, February 18, 2021, Lacey Township Detectives arrested Bernard Kappen, charging him with the additional catalytic converters thefts and criminal mischief to the vehicles.  He was transported and lodged in the Ocean County Correctional Facility.  Bernard Kappen’s vehicle, which he used to further facilitate his crimes, was seized.

The Lacey Township Police Department recommends all vehicle owners be aware of the increased risk of catalytic converter thefts.  This has become both a nationwide and local issue, due to the high value of the precious metals that the auto parts contain.  Additionally, it is unfortunate that individuals would victimize our local businesses and places of worship during these times of struggle and hardship.  However, the Lacey Township Police Department works tirelessly to protect and serve the residents and businesses within our community.

Residents are asked to report suspicious activity by contacting the Lacey Township Police Department at 609-693-6636. If the matter is an emergency call 911.

The press and public are reminded that all defendants are innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Unfortunately, our Records Bureau will remain closed until further notice.  We apologize for any inconvenience and hope to reopen in the near future.

Thank you for your continued support.

BE AWARE OF PHONE SCAMS

The Lacey Township Police Department is again encouraging residents and business owners to remain vigilant against phone scams.  Recently, suspects posing as representatives of JCP&L have contacted residents threatening to shut off power if an immediate payment is not made.  The caller directs the victim to provide banking information or to purchase a gift card toward the payment.

If your account is past due with JCP&L, you will receive a written notice reminding you of your account status with instructions on how to avoid disconnection of service.  An agent of JCP&L might contact a customer who is in the arrears to explain payment options but will not demand immediate payment.  JCP&L does not accept prepaid debit cards or wire transfers as payment.  Furthermore, JCP&L will not demand banking information or credit card numbers over the phone.  Your JCP&L account status can always be verified by calling customer service at 1-800-662-3115.

If you believe you are a victim of this scam or any other, residents should report the matter to Lacey Police.

Any suspected telephone scam should be reported to the Federal Trade Commission at www.ftc.gov.

Suspicious Incident- On Friday, February 19, 2021, at 12:22 p.m., Officers Noah Schaffer and Michael Hein were dispatched to the intersection of Sunrise Boulevard and Oak Lane for a suspicious male.  Upon arrival, officers met with a 52 year-old Cape May man who was reportedly exercising.  Several hours after clearing from their interaction, officers were dispatched again to Sunrise Plaza where the individual was found sleeping in a dumpster.  The man was transported to a warming center in Toms River.

DWI- On Friday, February 19, 2021, at 7:52 p.m., dispatch received a call concerning an erratic driver.  Officer Scott Keefe located the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop on Route 9.  The driver, David Zembrzuski, was deemed under the influence and placed under arrest.  Zembrzuski, 42, was charged with DWI and Reckless Driving prior to being released.

Theft- On Saturday, February 20, 2021, at 12:10 p.m., Officer Michael Baldasari met with a Lanoka Harbor resident in reference to a theft.  The victim reported that a new iPhone, valued at $850, was delivered to her home and stolen from her porch prior to her retrieving it.

Fraud- On Sunday, February 21, 2021, at 11:01 p.m., Officer Dallas Gant met with a Township resident in reference to suspected fraud.  The victim reported that he received an email from Best Buy stating that they deducted $99.99 from his bank account for his Geek Squad account.  The victim, not having such an account, contacted the attached phone number.  The alleged representative explained that the charge was a mistake and asked the victim for access to his computer in order to refund the payment.  The representative then explained that he had accidentally credited the victim’s account with $4099.99 and asked that he forward the difference of $4,000.  The victim realized the attempted fraud prior to transferring funds.

Shoplifting- On Wednesday, February 24, 2021, at 11:50 a.m., Officer Alan Abrecht met with the owner of a local business who reported a theft.  The victim stated that while reviewing her surveillance video, she realized that a woman stole merchandise the day prior.  The suspect also purchased several items using a credit card during her visit.  The credit information was searched and it was discovered that the person listed on the credit card was deceased.  Attempts are being made to identify the actor.  The theft is valued at $73.75.

DWI- On Wednesday, February 24, 2021, at 3:43 p.m., Officer Jason Lee conducted a motor vehicle stop for several violations.  The driver, 68 year-old Samuel Courlas, was ultimately placed under arrested for driving under the influence.  Courlas was issued summonses for DWI, Reckless Driving, Failure to Maintain Lane, and Traffic Light Violation.  He was released pending a Court appearance.

Theft- On Thursday, February 25, 2021, at 8:21 a.m., Officer Andrew Slota was dispatched to the Lacey Business Park for a reported theft.  A business owner reported that the catalytic converter was cut from one of his work vehicles during an unknown time frame.  The theft is valued at $1,000.

Fraud- On Saturday, February 27, 2021, at 1:46 p.m., Officer Scott Anderson met with a Forked River resident who reported fraudulent activity to his bank account.  The victim conveyed that an unknown suspect made three separate withdrawals totaling $1,989 in January.

DWI- On Tuesday, March 2, 2021, at 12:01 p.m., Detective Jesse Dalziel conducted a motor vehicle stop after witnessing several violations.  During the stop, Shannon Wisniewski, 35, was deemed impaired and arrested.  Shannon was later released after being issued summonses for DWI, Reckless Driving, Failure to Maintain Lane, Suspended Registration, and Controlled Substance in a Motor Vehicle.  A criminal complaint for Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance was also issued.

Dispute- On Tuesday, March 2, 2021, officers responded to a Station Drive residence for the report of approximately 10 individuals fighting.  Officers discovered that the dispute started when an argument ensued between a tenant and a visitor.  All parties were dispersed without arrests.

Theft- On Thursday, March 4, 2021, at 1:17 p.m., Officer Andrew Slota met with a Forked River resident in reference to a theft.  The victim reported that while a contractor worked at the home, an unknown suspect stole blinds from behind the contractor’s vehicle that was parked near the street.  The blinds were valued at $2,139.

Criminal Mischief  (Auto) – On Thursday, March 4, 2021, at 10:43 p.m., Officer Bruce Carver responded to a Devon Street address for a report of a subject who damaged the windshield of a vehicle with an object.  Brenden Evans, 33, was charged with Criminal Mischief and Possession of a Weapon for Unlawful Purpose.  He was taken into custody at a later date and lodged in the Ocean County Correctional Facility.

Warrant Arrest– On Friday, March 5, 2021, at 8:13 p.m., Officer Alan Abrecht responded to the Beachwood Police Department to take custody  of Kristen Arntz, 48 on a Lacey Township Warrant for Shoplifting. Officer Abrecht had initially issued the warrant for a shoplifting incident that occurred on February 23, 2021, at a local business in Lacey Township.  Kristen Arntz was transported to the Lacey Township Police Department for processing and was then lodged in the Ocean County Correctional Facility.

DUI– On Monday, March 8, 2021, at 12:02 p.m., multiple officers responded to the intersection of Lacey Road and Newark Avenue for a report of a three car motor vehicle crash with injuries.  An investigation at the scene by Officer Michael Baldasari led to the arrest of Sharon Raab, 34, for DUI.  Sharon Raab was processed and later released after being issued traffic summonses for DUI, and Reckless Driving, along with a criminal summons for Assault by Auto.

Arrest– On Tuesday, March 9, 2021, multiple officers responded to a Devon Street address for a report of a male causing a disturbance.  Upon arrival, Officers determined the male had an outstanding Lacey Township Warrant for Criminal Mischief.   Brenden Evans, 33, was arrested on the original warrant, and also charged with Obstruction of the Law, Resisting Arrest, Hindering Apprehension, and Terrorist Threats.  He was processed at police headquarters and lodged in the Ocean County Correctional Facility.

False Public Alarm- On Friday, March 12, 2021, Officer Andrew Slota concluded an investigation regarding numerous calls to 911. Over the last several weeks, a Lacey resident has called 911 in reference to a civil matter. The caller was advised on numerous occasions by several different officers that the matter regarding his dog was a civil matter and should not be reported to 911.  On March 11, 2021 Shawn Schierloh, 49, contacted 911 six times regarding this issue.  Due to the nearly 40 calls to 911 over the last several weeks, Schierloh was served with a summons for False Public Alarm and Misuse of 911.

Theft- On Friday, March 12, 2021, at 3:32 p.m., Officer Alan Abrecht responded to Hammets Landscaping for a reported theft. The business reported that an unknown subject removed planted shrubs and bushes from in front of the business within the past several days.

Assault- On Sunday, March 14, 2021, at 2:52 p.m., Officers Dan Ricciardella and Andrew Slota responded to a reported assault.  The caller, a 47 year-old man, described that he was involved in a physical dispute with another adult male on Sunrise Boulevard.  The second actor was located and confirmed the altercation with a different description of the events.  The incident is being investigated.

Fire- On Sunday, March 14, 2021, at 6:59 p.m., Officer Patrick Watkins responded to the southern end of the Oyster Creek property for a fire. It appeared that a transformer began to arc causing a fire to originate in the adjacent brush. Forked River and Waretown Fire Departments responded and extinguished the fire. The fire was contained to a small area and is being investigated by the New Jersey State Forest Fire Service.

DWI- On Sunday, March 14, 2021, at 7:23 p.m., Officer Scott Keefe was dispatched to Holmes Avenue for a reported erratic driver. A motor vehicle stop was conducted and investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the driver, Nicolino Lotrecchiano, 47.  Lotrecchiano was released after being charged with DWI, Reckless Driving, and Failing to Provide Breath Samples.

Lotrecchiano was arrested a second time on Wednesday, March 17, at 5:52 p.m., after he was stopped by Officer Michael Baldasari on Lacey Road.  Lotrecchiano was charged with DWI, Reckless Driving, and Failure to Maintain Lane.