LACEY TOWNSHIP, NJ – The following incidents were reported by the Lacey Township Police Department this week.
Internet Fraud- On Sunday, April 25, 2021, at 8:02 p.m., Officer Dallas Gant met with a Township resident in reference to suspicious messages. The victim reported that he was threatened by an unknown person that explicit photos would be released unless their demands were met. This appears to be part of an ongoing scam thought to originate outside of the United States.
Fire- On Monday, April 26, 2021, at 4:59 p.m., officers were dispatched to Devoe Street for a structure fire. Members of the Forked River Fire Department were the first to arrive at the scene and discovered fire at the rear of the home. The fire spread from the back wall into the attic prior to being brought under control by firefighters. The home suffered severe damage.
Fraud- On Tuesday, April 27, 2021, at 3:29 p.m., Officer Alan Abrecht met with a Forked River resident reporting an Internet scam. The victim reported that an unknown suspect created an Internet sales account through Facebook listing him as the owner of the account. Excessive sales were made, as far away as Canada, none of which was filled. The victim is now receiving calls concerning the sales, some threatening.
Criminal Mischief- On Wednesday, April 28, 2021, at 4:20 a.m., Officer Bruce Carver responded to 7-11, 403 Route 9, in reference to damage. The store clerk reported that two men entered the store inquiring about Western Union. When they were advised that the system was inoperable, one suspect punched the glass door causing it to crack. The suspects fled on foot prior to Officer Carver’s arrival.
MV Theft- On Wednesday, April 28, 2021, at 2:00 p.m., Officer Alan Abrecht met with a complainant reporting the theft of her rental vehicle. The victim stated that she parked the vehicle, a Nissan Versa, in a Route 9 commercial parking lot near 7:00 a.m. Upon returning, the vehicle was missing. Surveillance video is being sought.
Fraud- On Wednesday, April 28, 2021, at 2:07 p.m., Officer Jason Lee was dispatched to TD Bank for fraud. The branch manager reported that a customer entered the branch attempting to get a replacement debit card. After not being able to answer security questions the subject was turned away. It was later discovered that the attempt was made at several branches and that the suspect was was thought to be impersonating account holders.