Teens Charged with Erial Vandalism Spree

Police today announced charges against three out-of-town teenagers accused of going on a vandalism spree in the township's Erial section earlier this week.

Officers dispatched to the Cobblestone Farms and Spring Valley developments early on Tuesday found more than 20 vehicles with mustard, ketchup and grass clippings on them.

When police returned to the area Wednesday to continue the investigation, it was learned that several rowboats and a trampoline had been tossed into Cobblestone Lake and lawn furniture into one home's pool, according to police.

Most residents were able to recover their property. One of the rowboats the teens allegedly tossed into the lake sunk when it capsized, police said.

While canvassing the area for evidence, police learned that several teenagers had stayed at a Mullen Drive home the night the vandalism occurred. Police followed up that lead and were able to identify the following suspects: Kyle McGinnis, 18, of Deptford Township; Sean Gartland, 18, of Gloucester City; and Michael Scharle, 18, of Sewell.

All three teens have been charged with criminal mischief and unlawful taking of a means of conveyance (the boats).They were released on their own recognizance pending court.

Additional charges can be filed, according to police.

The police department commended area residents who aided the investigation.

Some refer to this section of the township as Sicklerville, others as Erial. The Sicklerville ZIP code is used in the area.