HOWELL TOWNSHIP, NJ – Police have charged an 18-year-old Freehold Township man in connection with an assault that occurred on Pinewood Road last month, following a community-assisted investigation.
According to the Howell Township Police Department, Detective Ryan Jackson identified the suspect, Jaden Thompson, who now faces multiple criminal charges stemming from the November 17 incident.
Thompson was charged on a Complaint-Summons with third-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child and Simple Assault, a disorderly persons offense.
Authorities confirmed Thompson is currently being held at the Ocean County Jail on unrelated criminal charges dating back to November 29.
Investigation aided by community tips
Police said several tips submitted by township residents were reviewed and proved valuable in identifying the suspect. Officials thanked the community for its cooperation and commitment to public safety throughout the investigation.
The department emphasized that all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court beyond a reasonable doubt, in accordance with constitutional protections.