Elderly Berkeley Man Selling Guns And Ammo Out Of His House, Police Chief Says

Berkeley police recently arrested an Eton Road man and charged him with illegally selling a "significant" weapons cache and ammunition, Police Chief Karin T. DiMichele said.

Berkeley detectives began an investigation earlier this month into the illegal sale of firearms in the Silver Ridge Park section of the township, the chief said.

Police started the investigation after learning that a man was illegally selling handguns, rifles and shotguns from the Eton Road home.

"These sales were without the required permits or forms and were considered street level deals," DiMichele said.

Berkeley detectives and members of the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office's Special Operations Group executed a search warrant at Figlar's home on March 10. Figlar was present and taken into custody, DiMichele said.

A search of the residence uncovered a significant weapons cache of 18 firearms of various makes and models.

"They included handguns, rifles and shotguns," DiMichele said. "Further, a large amount of ammunition was also seized also offered for sale by Figlar. A large mount of cash suspected to be proceeds of these sales were also recovered."

Figlar was arrested and taken to police headquarters, where he as charged with the unlawful sale of a firearm and ammunition. He was released on a summons under the new bail reform guidelines, the chief said.

"The successful arrest and seizure of these dangerous firearms was due in part to information gathered from concerned citizens who came forward to report this illegal activity," DiMichele said. "Residents are encouraged to contact the Berkeley Township Police Department Tip Line at 732-341-1132 x 611 to report suspicious activity. Tips can be anonymous."

DiMichele credited Berkeley Township Detective Michael Tier, Detective Sergeant Peter La Rocca, Detective Joseph Santoro, Detective Michael Riccardelli, Detective Michael O’Connor and Patrolman Jerry Bacon, and the Special Operations Group with the successful investigation.

Image: Patricia A. Miller