WILDWOOD, NJ – A Mullica Hill man has been charged for multiple offenses following a burglary in Wildwood.
On July 5th, at around 11:55 pm, Officers Zachary Frame and Christopher Johnson of the North Wildwood Police Department observed Ryan Verdi, a 38-year-old resident of Mullica Hill, engaging in suspicious activity. Verdi was seen entering a vehicle near 22nd and Surf Avenue and using a flashlight to look through the center console.
He then exited the vehicle and approached another vehicle, attempting to pull the door handle. As a result, Verdi was arrested by the officers and charged with two counts of Burglary. He was released on a summons in accordance with the State of New Jersey Criminal Justice Bail Reform Guidelines.
Two days later, on July 7th at approximately 2:15 pm, Officer Steven Ransom responded to a report of a subject entering an open garage where he did not belong.
While conducting a search in the area, Officer Ransom spotted Verdi riding a bicycle that matched the description of the individual seen in the garage. It was discovered that the garage door was stuck open due to a power outage, and Verdi had stolen the bicycle from inside. When officers approached Verdi, he fled onto the beach and into the ocean. Sergeant Brian Harkins and Officer Dominic DeMusz entered the water to apprehend Verdi, with assistance from the North Wildwood Beach Patrol. Verdi was subsequently placed under arrest.
Verdi now faces multiple charges, including Burglary, Theft, Obstructing the Administration of Law, Disorderly Conduct, and Failing to Obey Lifeguard and Police Orders.