Jewelry and Weapons Recovered in Month-Long Investigation into Senior Community Burglaries

A month-long investigation by Manchester Township Police Detectives into a string of burglaries in two Manchester Township senior communities, during which jewelry and firearms were stolen, has resulted in multiple charges for a Berkeley Township man.

Over a one month period, 12 burglaries and two attempted burglaries were reported in the Leisure Knoll section of Manchester Township. Detectives also investigated a burglary in the Leisure Ridge section of Manchester Township, from which two firearms were taken. Additionally, an attempted burglary was also reported and investigated within the Leisure Ridge development.

The investigation by Officers from the Manchester Township Police Investigations and Patrol Bureaus found that entry was made into the homes, all of which were unoccupied, through both locked and unlocked doors and windows during evening hours. Some homes were entered by force, and the majority of the proceeds taken were jewelry.

Through the review of surveillance video footage and the help of a citizen’s, suspicious vehicle report, Detectives developed two suspects and, with the assistance of the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, were able to identify, arrest and charge Nicholas Marino, 24, of Grand Central Parkway, Berkeley Township, with committing several burglaries. During the course of the investigation, proceeds including jewelry and the two firearms stolen from Bridgeport Place were recovered from Marino’s residence.

Yesterday, (12/8/16) Marino was arrested and charged with seven counts of burglary, six counts of theft, and one count possession of receiving stolen property. He was lodged in the Ocean County Jail in default of bail, set at $90,500.00, no ten percent option. Additional charges may be forthcoming as the investigation continues. Further investigation by the Investigations Bureau found that Marino was not working alone in committing these burglaries. Detectives are continuing to investigate and additional arrest(s) are anticipated.

Residents are reminded to always be vigilant and to report any and all suspicious activity, persons, and vehicles to Manchester Township Police at 732-657-6111 or by using the Tip-Line link at the Manchester Police Website (www.manchesterpolicenj.com). Tip-Line information may be left anonymously.