Gym locker theft suspect arrested after series of incidents in West Long Branch
West Long Branch, NJ – A Howell man was arrested after investigators linked him to a string of reported locker thefts at a local gym, where cash was taken from members’ lockers over several weeks, police said.
Edward Byham, 35, was taken into custody on Thursday, Feb. 13, following an investigation by Detective Hanrahan and Detective Szatkowski of the West Long Branch Police Department.
The arrest stems from eight separate thefts reported during January and February at Retro Fitness in West Long Branch. According to police, the incidents involved cash removed from gym lockers.
As a result of the investigation, Byham was charged with theft under N.J.S.A. 2C:20-3, criminal attempt to commit theft under N.J.S.A. 2C:5-1, possession of burglary tools under N.J.S.A. 2C:5-5, and theft of services under N.J.S.A. 2C:20-8.
The investigation remains ongoing. Police stated that additional arrests or charges may follow.
Anyone with information related to the case is asked to contact the West Long Branch Police Department Detective Bureau at 732-229-5000, extension 250 or 251.
Despite the charges, Byham is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Key Points
- Howell man arrested in connection with eight reported gym locker thefts
- Incidents occurred at Retro Fitness in West Long Branch during January and February
- Investigation ongoing with possible additional charges