BRICK, NJ – “I have a cutter,” said a woman who was being investigated for shoplifting last week at the Brick Township Walmart.
Brick Police reported on 11/19/2021 at approximately 9 P.M. units responded to Walmart (1872 Route 88) for a potential shoplifter. A loss prevention employee called police and explained that a female was currently utilizing an unidentified tool to cut security devices off of televisions.
Brick Police Street Crimes Unit (SCU) observed the female inside the store disabling security devices on the televisions. The female began to exit the store and was approached by SCU Detectives. The suspect was identified as Erika Martinez (38 years of age from Lakewood, NJ).
During the investigation, Martinez explained to officers she has a “cutter” inside her purse which was lying on the front seat of her vehicle. She stated she was removing the security devices from the televisions so she could steal them.
Search incident to arrest, Martinez was found to be in possession of various illegal substances including, Suboxone, Ecstasy, and Amphetamine. Martinez was charged with possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance, possession of a prescription legend drug, possession of drug paraphernalia, intent to Distribute a Controlled Dangerous Substance, shoplifting and possession of burglar tools. Martinez was lodged in Ocean County Jail.