WILDWOOD CREST, NJ — Early Sunday morning, a routine patrol led to the arrest of a 24-year-old Haddon Township man, Samuel Beatty, on multiple charges including DWI and various weapons offenses. The incident occurred around 3:30 AM at the intersection of Bayview and Preston Avenues.
Cpl. William Gianakopoulos of the Wildwood Crest Police Department noticed a vehicle parked facing the wrong direction with its engine running and the driver asleep at the wheel. Upon inspection, the officer observed that the driver, later identified as Beatty, showed signs of impairment and was unresponsive with his foot on the gas pedal.
Despite orders to exit the vehicle and perform sobriety tests, Beatty refused, resulting in his arrest for suspicion of DWI and obstruction of justice. A subsequent search of his vehicle revealed an array of illegal weapons including a .22 caliber revolver, a .177 caliber metal BB gun, a large capacity canister of OC spray, and several knives.
Beatty faces serious charges including unlawful possession of a handgun, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, and additional weapons-related offenses. He was taken to Cape May County Correctional Facility, following guidelines associated with the Criminal Justice Bail Reform.
The Wildwood Crest Police Department continues to investigate the incident and stresses the importance of community vigilance and cooperation in maintaining public safety.
