Berkeley Police Charge Manahawkin Man And Juvenile With Pinewald Graffiti Incidents

by Patricia A. Miller

Berkeley Township police have charged an 18-year-old Manahawkin man and a juvenile with causing more than $20,000 of damage by spray painting vulgar graffiti on several homes, cars and watercraft in the Pinewald section of Bayville, Police Chief Karin T. DiMichele said.

The incidents occurred during the overnight hours of the Fourth of July and again on July 15.

“In addition, several of the original victims were again targeted and their property was again spray painted,” the chief said. “Some of this graffiti contained taunting messages to the original victims.”

Police arrested James Carpenter, 18, Buccaneer Lane and the juvenile today. Carpenter was taken to the Ocean County Jail in Toms River in lieu of $5,000 set by Municipal Court Judge James Gluck, DiMichele said.

The investigation was conducted with the help of concerned residents. Residents are always urged to remain vigilant and to contact the Berkeley Township Police Department to report suspicious activity. Tips can be left at 732-341-1132 x 611. Calls can remain anonymous.

“I want to commend the detective bureau for the through investigation in this matter and the residents who came forward with important information,” Mayor Carmen F. Amato Jr. said. ”Any residents that see suspicious activity are encouraged to call the Berkeley Township Police Tip line.”