Howell Man, Juvenile Charged for Beating at Jackson Apartment Complex

Arriving officers located a 20 year old male resident of Manalapan who had suffered injuries after reportedly being assaulted by multiple suspects. It was reported that the victim had been speaking with a female online who he had just met and she had directed him to meet her at the apartment complex on Brewers Bridge Road. She then led him to one of the laundry rooms located in the basement of the apartments and as they were inside, the victim was assaulted by at least 3 male suspects, 1 of which he claimed to have recognized from past interactions. The victim reportedly lost consciousness at one point but was able to get out of the laundry room and go outside where the assault continued and he began yelling for help.

Police Officers Derek Thomason, Robert Reiff and Thomas Conti responded to the scene. Officer Thomason located a suspect vehicle which was reported to be involved in the incident and conducted a motor vehicle stop with it. The vehicle was occupied by a female and male and both were identified as having been involved in the incident and the officer observed fresh blood on the male occupant’s face, shirt and hands. The male and female were taken into custody and the victim was treated by First Aid and then transported to an area hospital for further treatment.

Arrested:

Kevin Prieto, age 22 of Howell, NJ. He was charged with aggravated assault and conspiracy. He was lodged in the Ocean County Jail after being processed.

A juvenile female resident of Toms River, NJ was taken into custody, processed and then later released to a family member. A juvenile complaint charging her with conspiracy was prepared. The matter will be referred to the Family Court.

The investigation is ongoing to identify the other suspects who were reported to have been involved in this incident. Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the Jackson Police Department at 732-928-1111 or through P3 Tips.