LACEY TOWNSHIP, NJ – The following incidents were reported by the Lacey Township Police Department.
Shoplifting
On Thursday, February 24, 2022, at 7:34 p.m., officers responded to Kohl’s, 304 Main Street for a report of a male shoplifter who had left the store. With the assistance of a witness, officers later located the suspect at a nearby business, where he was changing into the stolen clothes. The suspect, Joseph Vapore Jr. (Age 33), Vineland, NJ was placed under arrest and transported to headquarters where he was charged with shoplifting. Joseph Vapore Jr was later lodged in Ocean County Jail.
Theft
On Thursday, February 24, 2022, at 7:47 p.m., Officer Gant responded to the Bay Harbor Motel, located at 419 South Main Street, Forked River, for a report of a theft. Upon arrival, Officer Gant met with the manager, who reported a male subject stole a fire extinguisher from the second floor of the hotel. The estimated value of the stolen fire extinguisher was $50.00.
Theft from a Motor Vehicle
On Thursday, February 24, 2022, at 9:32 p.m., Officer Gant responded to the Pine Tar Bar and Grill, located at 121 South Main Street, for a report of a theft. The victim reported sometime between 7:30 p.m. and 7:50 p.m., someone entered their unlocked vehicle and stole three pairs of sunglasses and a window police shield. The vehicle was parked in the rear of the building at the time of the theft. The total value of the items is approximately $1200.00
Shoplifting
On Saturday, February 26, 2022 at 10:15 a.m., Officer Hutman responded to Walmart, 580 Route 9 North, for a shoplifting incident that occurred earlier in the day. Officer Hutman met with the loss prevention employee who reported a male came into the store and placed a 43” television and a car stereo into a shopping cart, then pushed the cart out of the exit without paying for the items. The suspect entered a vehicle and left the area. The suspect has not been identified and an investigation is ongoing at this time.
Driving While Intoxicated
On Friday, February 25, 2022, at 8:06 p.m., officers responded to the area of Route 9 North and Musket Drive, for a report of an erratic driver. Officer Hyle located the vehicle and conducted a motor vehicle stop. Officer Hyle spoke with the driver, Anthony Italiano (Age 35), of Toms River, NJ. Investigation at the scene revealed that Anthony was driving while intoxicated. Anthony was placed under arrest and transported to Headquarters, where he was processed. The vehicle was towed pursuant to John’s Law. Anthony was charged with DWI, Reckless Driving and Fictitious Plates