Two Howell residents accused of stealing from locally owned Wall Township store

WALL TOWNSHIP, N.J. — Two Howell residents are facing shoplifting charges after police said they stole merchandise from a locally owned retail store along State Highway 35.

The investigation began July 30 when Wall Township police responded to a report of shoplifting at Wanderlust Land & Sea.

Police said officers worked closely with the business owner and used information provided by the store to identify two suspects.

On July 31, Patrolman James Yannazzone and Patrolman Danielle D’Ambrosio arrested 42-year-old Marie Zuco and 39-year-old Matthew Mercer, both of Howell.

According to police, both were charged with shoplifting, processed and released on summonses pending court appearances.

“Local businesses are a part of our community, and we are fully committed to ensuring a safe, secure shopping environment for both owners and patrons,” Chief Sean O’Halloran said in a statement.

“Thanks to the quick action of our officers and the proactive cooperation of the owner of Wanderlust Land & Sea, we were able to bring this matter to a swift resolution.”

The department said it remains committed to investigating and prosecuting crimes targeting local businesses.

Key Points

Two Howell residents were arrested in connection with a shoplifting investigation in Wall Township.
Police said the theft occurred at Wanderlust Land & Sea on State Highway 35.
Both suspects were charged with shoplifting and released on summonses pending court appearances.

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Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

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Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

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