BERKELEY TOWNSHIP, N.J. — The Berkeley Township Police Department released its latest blotter, detailing arrests and incidents from January 1 to February 28, 2025, including DWIs, shoplifting, fraud, and a structure fire. Several suspects were released pending court dates, while others were remanded to Ocean County Jail.
TOMS RIVER, NJ – A 67-year-old Berkeley Township man, David Taber, was found guilty of criminal sexual contact on March 5, 2025, following a nearly week-long jury trial in Ocean County Superior Court. The verdict, delivered before Judge Kenneth T. Palmer, stems from an incident that occurred on March 22, 2023, at the Crystal Lake Rehabilitation Facility in Berkeley Township. Taber now faces up to 18 months in New Jersey State Prison, with sentencing scheduled for May 9, 2025. The conviction follows an investigation sparked by a disturbing encounter at the rehabilitation center. According to Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D.
Berkeley Township, NJ, might be known for its coastal charm and laid-back vibes, but it’s also home to some of the best pizza spots in the area. Whether you’re after a classic New York-style slice, a hearty Sicilian square, or a gourmet pie with fresh, high-quality ingredients, there’s no shortage of choices. From longtime neighborhood staples to hidden gems, let’s take a closer look at the top contenders serving up the best pizza in town. Pies Place – Where Flavor Meets Affordability Nestled in the heart of Bayville, Pies Place has earned a loyal following for its delicious, budget-friendly pizza.
BERKELEY TOWNSHIP, NJ – A motor vehicle crash on Grand Central Parkway resulted in the death of a passenger and charges for the driver, according to Berkeley Township Police. On Monday at 12:03 p.m., officers responded to a report of a single-vehicle crash with airbag deployment near 144 Grand Central Parkway. Upon arrival, police found the driver and passenger outside the vehicle. Emergency responders transported the passenger to Jersey Shore Medical Center for treatment of serious injuries. Tragically, the passenger later succumbed to those injuries. The driver, Anthony S. Krempel Sr., 37, of Beachwood, was suspected of being under the
BERKELEY TOWNSHIP, NJ — A serious motor vehicle crash on Route 9 near Hickory Lane left one person injured and temporarily shut down the roadway on Saturday. According to Berkeley Township Police, the incident occurred when a Ford F-250 towing a trailer attempted to turn around and backed into a concrete block on the shoulder. The impact left the truck and trailer stopped in the middle of the roadway. While the Ford’s driver was outside inspecting the damage, a southbound Toyota Corolla collided with the stationary vehicle, causing significant damage and airbag deployment. The Corolla driver sustained serious injuries and
Berkeley Man Arrested on Narcotics Charges
**BERKELEY TOWNSHIP, NJ** – Detectives from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force and Berkeley Township Police Department have concluded a month-long investigation into illegal narcotics distribution. William Manser, 44, of Berkeley Township, was identified as a suspect using a local residence for illicit drug activities.
The investigation led to surveillance being set up on the identified location on Thursday. Manser was spotted exiting the residence, and when law enforcement attempted to detain him, he fled on a motorized scooter. Authorities quickly arrested him without incident and found him possessing heroin, cocaine, and oxycodone.
Further investigation by the Ocean County Regional SWAT Team resulted in a search warrant being executed at the residence. Detectives seized more controlled dangerous substances and paraphernalia related to narcotics distribution.
Manser now faces multiple charges, including possession and intent to distribute cocaine, heroin, and oxycodone within 500 feet of a public housing project. He has been detained at Ocean County Jail, awaiting a detention hearing. Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer praised the collaboration of all law enforcement agencies involved in the case.
Pedestrian Injured in Berkeley Township Vehicle Collision
**Berkeley Township, NJ** – Berkeley Township Police responded to an incident involving a pedestrian struck by a vehicle on Saturday at around 10:53 a.m. The incident occurred near 430 Atlantic City Blvd.
Upon arriving, police officers found a blue Mazda and a male pedestrian on the ground. The initial investigation indicated the Mazda was moving southbound when the pedestrian, crossing from the east without using a crosswalk, stepped in front of the car.
The impact propelled the pedestrian into the air and dragged him along the pavement. The vehicle’s windshield was shattered, but it remained otherwise undamaged.
While the Mazda’s occupants were unharmed, the pedestrian sustained multiple injuries, including a severe facial laceration, a compound arm fracture, a broken leg, and road burns. He was airlifted to Jersey Shore Medical Center for evaluation. Officer Slocum is investigating the crash further.
BERKELEY TOWNSHIP, N.J. — A crash at the intersection of Veterans Boulevard and Eastern Boulevard on Friday evening sent two juveniles to the hospital, according to police. Berkeley Township police responded to the scene at 5:54 p.m., where a red PT Cruiser driven by a 17-year-old female collided with an Accurate Towing flatbed truck. Authorities said the preliminary investigation revealed that the PT Cruiser entered the intersection unsafely, leading to the crash. The intersection is controlled by a stop sign. The driver of the PT Cruiser was airlifted to Jersey Shore Medical Center, while a juvenile passenger was transported to
BERKELEY TOWNSHIP, N.J. — A wildfire that burned approximately 200 acres in Berkeley Township has been ruled accidental, according to Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer. The fire, which began on September 9, 2024, was reported by the Cedar Bridge Fire Tower around 4:45 p.m. and is now 70 percent contained. An investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit-Arson Squad, New Jersey Forest Fire Service, and other local agencies determined that the wildfire was caused by an improperly extinguished campfire. The individual or individuals responsible have not been identified. The fire occurred in the area of Fisher’s
BERKELEY TOWNSHIP, N.J. — A pedestrian was critically injured after being struck by a vehicle in the Holiday City section of Berkeley Township on September 4, 2024, according to police. At approximately 3:00 p.m., officers responded to the intersection of Doral Drive and Cohansey Drive, where a 1999 Buick Sedan driven by Eugenio Carta, of Berkeley Township, had veered off the roadway, hitting a female pedestrian walking her dog on the sidewalk. The vehicle came to a stop after crashing into a tree. The female victim sustained a life-threatening head injury and was airlifted to Jersey Shore Medical Center, where
BERKELEY TOWNSHIP, N.J. — Firefighters responded to a home on Maracaibo Place on August 2 after a report of an oven fire, according to Berkeley Township Police. Patrolman James Tillett arrived to find visible smoke and flames. Fire crews from Manitou Park and Pinewald quickly extinguished the blaze. No injuries were reported, but the fire caused damage to the stove and nearby cabinets. The Ocean County Fire Marshal and Detective Derek Mayer conducted an investigation and determined that the fire was caused by paper products stored in the drawer beneath the stove.
A 21-year-old man from Berkeley, identified as Jonathan Ferro, has been charged with multiple offenses following a chaotic series of events on the Garden State Parkway on Wednesday. According to the New Jersey State Police, Ferro was involved in several hit-and-run crashes before abandoning his vehicle and attacking a construction worker in Tinton Falls. The incident began in the northbound lanes of the parkway near milepost 101.3 at around 2:18 p.m. Ferro, driving a Dodge pickup truck, reportedly caused multiple collisions before his vehicle became disabled. Instead of staying at the scene, Ferro fled on foot, leaving behind a trail
BERKELEY TOWNSHIP, N.J. — The Berkeley Township Police Department is currently conducting an active investigation in the vicinity of Chain Boulevard and Route 9. Authorities have requested that residents and the public refrain from calling 9-1-1 or dispatch for further information regarding the situation. As of now, details about the nature of the investigation have not been released. Police have assured the public that updates will be provided through official channels as the situation develops. The department has expressed its appreciation for the public’s cooperation and understanding during this time. Residents are advised to avoid the area until further notice.
BERKELEY TOWNSHIP, NJ— The Berkeley Township Office of Emergency Management has issued a precautionary advisory to both full-time and seasonal residents regarding Tropical Storm Debby. As of now, the storm’s precise path remains uncertain, but it is projected to potentially affect the New Jersey coast between Tuesday and Thursday of the upcoming week. Seasonal residents planning to leave this weekend are urged to secure their properties before departure. The advisory specifically recommends securing or storing loose items outdoors to prevent damage should the storm approach the coast and intensify. Continuous updates will be provided through the Berkeley Township Police Department
The Jackson All-Stars 8u secured a decisive 6-0 victory over Berkeley 8U All Stars on Tuesday, largely thanks to a five-run burst in the third inning. Key contributions came from Luca C, who doubled in a run, Nicholas H and G R, who both drew walks with the bases loaded, and Jordan S and Tyler K, who each singled to drive in runs. The game’s first score came in the opening inning when Nicholas H doubled to bring in a run for Jackson All-Stars 8u. Nicholas H also shone on the mound, pitching two and two-thirds innings, allowing two hits
BERKELEY TOWNSHIP, NJ – A severe motor vehicle collision occurred at the intersection of Jamaica Blvd and Bimini Drive in Berkeley Township on the morning of July 3, 2024. Berkeley Township Police were dispatched to the scene at approximately 9:15 AM where they found a tan Toyota Camry and a white Honda Civic both with substantial damage. The initial investigation indicates that the Camry was traveling west on Jamaica Blvd and failed to heed the stop sign at Bimini Drive. As it entered the intersection, it was broadsided by the Civic, which was heading north on Bimini Drive. The impact
BERKELEY TOWNSHIP, NJ—The Berkeley Township Municipal Utilities Authority (BTMUA) has issued a voluntary water conservation notice to its ratepayers, urging residents and businesses to reduce their water usage amid the current severe heat and dry conditions. The BTMUA recommends several practical measures to help conserve water: These voluntary measures are crucial to help mitigate the increased demand for water and prevent the need for mandatory restrictions. The BTMUA appreciates the community’s cooperation and efforts to minimize water use during this period. Residents can stay informed by subscribing to the Berkeley Township Nixle system, a free community notification service, by texting
BERKELEY TOWNSHIP, NJ— A recent arrest made by the Berkeley Township Police highlights ongoing law enforcement efforts to manage public intoxication and related offenses. On May 2, 2024, several officers responded to a call regarding an intoxicated male outside the Spirits store at 437 Rt. 9. Upon their arrival, officers encountered Antonio Jimenez, a 39-year-old man from Lakewood, who was visibly intoxicated and consuming alcohol in front of the store. Jimenez initially provided false information to the officers, complicating the interaction. After further investigation, Jimenez was identified and transported to the police headquarters. There, he was processed and charged with
BAYVILLE, NJ— A significant traffic accident involving two vehicles occurred on May 6, 2024, at the intersection of Route 9 and Ocean Gate Drive, prompting a large response from local law enforcement and emergency services. Patrolmen Michael Bulwinski, Joseph Chester, Justin Heffernan, along with Sgt. Robert Flanegan, Patrolman Ryan Drivanos, and Patrolman Alex Houle from the local police department, were dispatched to the scene. They were supported by EMS and the Bayville Fire Department, who provided immediate assistance. The investigation at the scene revealed that a 2021 Nissan Sentra, driven by 25-year-old Niyanna Carrero of Linden, was making an illegal
Toms River, NJ – Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer unveiled a three-month investigation into the distribution of illegal narcotics in Ocean County. Collaborating agencies identified Nicholas Ryland as a suspect utilizing residences in Toms River and Berkeley Township for narcotics activities. On Wednesday, law enforcement agencies initiated surveillance on both residences to locate Ryland. Ryland, accompanied by Quadazia Scott, was stopped by authorities. Detectives seized significant quantities of drugs and money from Ryland’s vehicle and residence in Toms River. Detectives later detained Scott in Lakewood after discovering drugs in her vehicle. The investigation led authorities to conduct a search
Berkeley, NJ – In a momentous occasion at Berkeley Town Hall, Mayor Bacchione had the distinct honor of officiating his first wedding ceremony. The event was made even more special as it celebrated the union of one of the town’s own employees, Ignacio, affectionately known by his colleagues as “Iggy.” Ignacio is a valued member of the Buildings & Grounds Department. The ceremony marked a joyous milestone for both the mayor and the newlyweds. Ignacio and his bride, Ofelia, exchanged vows in a ceremony that highlighted their commitment and love for one another. The town hall, usually the center of
Berkeley Township, NJ – Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer has confirmed that a structure fire on Berkeley Avenue, which occurred on February 7, 2024, at around 8:20 p.m., was accidental. The Berkeley Township Police and Fire Departments were dispatched to the scene following reports of a fire with possible entrapment. Upon their arrival, emergency responders observed heavy fire emanating from the front of the home. All three occupants had evacuated the premises. Two individuals were taken to RWJ Barnabas Community Medical Center in Toms River, receiving treatment for minor injuries before being released. The third occupant suffered more severe
BERKELEY TOWNSHIP [BAYVILLE], NJ – The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office has announced charges against three individuals in relation to a drug-induced death in Berkeley Township. Michael Wormann, Ryan Thompson, and Tina Martinez are facing strict liability drug-induced death charges. The victim, a 55-year-old male, was found deceased on September 29, from an apparent drug overdose. Investigations led to the discovery that the trio had distributed Fentanyl to the victim. Wormann, Thompson, and Martinez were initially charged with related drug offenses and were recently charged with the death following toxicology results. Wormann and Martinez were taken into custody without incident, while
By Jonathan Stempel (Reuters) – The University of California, Berkeley was sued on Tuesday by Jewish groups who said it has become a hotbed of “unchecked” antisemitism, including at its elite law school. According to a complaint by the nonprofit Louis D. Brandeis Center, UC Berkeley’s leadership turns a blind eye to the long-festering problem of antisemitism on campus, even after displays of harassment and physical violence against Jews following Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack on Israel. The complaint filed in San Francisco federal court is among the first against a major university since the war between Israel and Hamas sparked
BERKELEY TOWNSHIP, NJ – Berkeley Township Mayor Carmen Amato is moving on. On Tuesday night, Amato won his election campaign for state office along with his running mates in the 9th legislative district. Amato, a Republican who has been a popular mayor for Berkeley Township, soundly defeated his opponent, Democrat Gabriel Franco. Amato received 37,529 votes or 68% of the total ballots cast. Franco won 32%. The win vacates the mayor’s seat in January, which was won by Councilman John Baccione and his council running mates Thomas Grosse, Keith Buscio, and Doug Bowens. The Baccione team won the race by