Man Scammed Out Of $3K, Gas Station Broken Into: Berkeley Police Blotter

BERKELEY, NJ — A man got scammed out of $3,000 in an apparent romance scam, a gas station got broken into and more in the past month.

Berkeley police released their blotter for the month of November, outlining the notable incidents officers responded to that month.

Here is November's blotter, courtesy of Berkeley police and unedited by Patch.

Theft by Deception – On November 3, 2025, Patrolman Robert Zilavetz responded to the area of Vail St. for a report of Fraud. Upon arrival it was learned that the victim was speaking with a female through an app called “Telegram.” The female claimed to work on an offshore rig in the Atlantic Ocean as a nurse. The victim had never met the female in person. The victim sent the female 12 payments totaling $3000.00 to an account for travel and medical issues the female claimed to have. Patrolman Zilavetz advised the victim he had appeared to be a victim of a romance scam. The identity of the suspect remains unknown at this time. Berkeley Township Police remind residents to never send money to someone you have never met and to be wary of relationships that move too fast. If you think you have been scammed, contact the BTPD and file a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) immediately at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

Criminal Mischief/Bias Incident – On November 7, 2025, Patrolman Anthony Tuminaro responded to the area of Halifax Rd. for a report of criminal mischief. Upon arrival it was learned that newly built townhomes were entered and racial slurs were written on the walls. Detective Derek Mayer and Sgt. Taylor Butler arrived on scene to investigate. No signs of forced entry were seen. No other damage was found. This incident is currently under investigation.

Burglary – On November 16, 2025, Patrolman Ryan Wahl, Patrolman William Shoemaker, Patrolman Evan Burton and Sgt. Jerry Bacon responded to the BP Gas Station for a report of a burglary. Upon arrival it was learned that the front glass door was smashed with a large rock. Detective Michael Riccardelli and CSI arrived on scene to assist with the investigation. Video footage was obtained. The suspect was seen stealing several electronic cigarettes valued at approximately $690.00 as well as approximately $500.00 in damage done to the front door. This incident is currently under active investigation.

Arrest/Warrant – On November 25, 2025, Officer Jacob Turrin responded to Toms River Police Department for custody of Jose Acosta, 35, of Manahawkin who had warrants out of Berkeley Township (Contempt of Court) for $1500.00. Acosta was remanded to OCJ without incident.

Arrest/DWI – On November 26, 2025, Patrolman Brian Flanegan, Patrolman Michael Sasso, Patrolman Michael Taylor, Patrolman Robert Murawski and Officer Jabob Turrin all responded to the area of 699 Rt.9 for a report of a 2004 silver Jeep swerving in the roadway. Upon arrival the vehicle was seen pulling into the EZ Liquors and the driver was seen stumbling out of the vehicle. Upon further investigation the driver was found to be under the influence of alcoholic beverages. The driver was identified as Michael Bartley, 66, of Bayville. Bartley was arrested and transported to police headquarters where he was processed and charged with Driving While Intoxicated. Careless Driving and Failure to Stop or Yield. Bartley’s vehicle was impounded in accordance with John’s Law. Bartley was released pending a future court date.

Fire – On November 28, 2025, Patrolman Christopher DeDeyn responded to the area of Nixon Ave for a report of an active fire. Upon arrival the fire was already extinguished by the resident and a neighbor. No injuries were reported. Substantial damage was found in the interior walls of the garage. The Ocean County Fire Marshall and Detective Derek Mayer arrived on scene to investigate. The cause of the fire was determined to be electrical. The Berkeley Township Building Inspector deemed the residence habitable.