Man allegedly planted device and triggered false alarm
FREEHOLD, NJ – A St. Patrick’s Day parade in Keansburg was abruptly canceled after a man reported a suspicious device near the route, only for investigators to later allege he was responsible for placing it.
Authorities said 56-year-old Christopher J. Otis of Brick has been charged with false public alarm, possession of a destructive device, and providing false information to law enforcement.
The incident unfolded around 10:45 a.m. on Saturday, March 28, when officers responded to Beachway and Bayview avenues following a report of a suspicious device. The caller, later identified as Otis, told police he discovered the item near a beachside walking path.
Officers located the device near a staging area for parade participants, prompting an immediate security response. The area was secured, and the parade was canceled as a precaution.
Multiple K9 units searched the area and parade route, with no additional devices found.
Investigators later identified inconsistencies in Otis’ account. A joint investigation involving the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, Keansburg Police Department, and the FBI led to charges alleging his involvement in placing the device and reporting it.
Otis, who identified himself to officers as a fire safety and environmental compliance officer at Brookdale Community College, is being held at the Monmouth County Correctional Institution pending court proceedings.
The case is being prosecuted by the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Bureau.
Key Points
- Man charged after reporting suspicious device that led to parade cancellation
- Device found near staging area for Keansburg St. Patrick’s Day event
- Investigation alleges suspect provided false information to police
