Ocean County Prosecutor Joseph D. Coronato and Pine Beach Police Chief Matthew Petrecca today announced the arrest of Michael Arellano, 25, of Beachwood, NJ. Pine Beach Det. Anthony Pruchnick and OCPO Special Victims Unit Det. Alex Dasti arrested Arellano on Tuesday (2/6). He is charged with three (3) counts of Harassment (Offensive Touching) and one (1) count of Criminal Sexual Contact.
The arrest stems from an investigation by the partnering detectives into the report that Arellano allegedly touched inappropriately during the course of their workday at the Pine Beach Roy Rogers Restaurant four (4) female co-workers (ranging in age from 16 – 18). The subsequent investigation alleges Arellano inappropriately touched the girl’s bodies numerous times over their clothing out of the view of others. The victims physically and verbally objected, however, the inappropriate touching continued. All the victims stated that the acts occurred soon after they were hired. They have each since ended their employment at the restaurant.
Assistant Prosecutor Mara Brater approved the complaints after reviewing the case. The defendant was processed on a summons and released. The media and public are reminded that criminal charges are merely accusations and that the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
NOTE: There is the potential for additional victims in this case. The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office is encouraging any other victims to contact Det. Alex Dasti of the Prosecutor’s Special Victims Unit at 732-929-2027.