Matawan PD Recognized by NJ State Police for Recovering Stolen Guns

Officers from the Matawan Borough Police Department were recently recognized by the NJ State Police for recovering two stolen guns in August 2011 that were taken from a boat docked in a Keyport marina in July 2011.

In a letter sent to the department by Major Brian McPherson of the NJ State Police, Matawan is commended for their investigation of a separate crime that ultimately led to the recovery of the two guns and other stolen property.

The specific officers recognized were Lt. Jason Gallo, Lt. Ben Smith, Sgt. Thomas Falco, Det. Joseph Lovallo, and Ptl. Eric Budelmann.

In July 2011, were burglarized. According to police, a .40 caliber Smith & Weston handgun and a Mossberg pump shotgun were taken from one of the boats docked in Keyport. NJ State Police Officers from the Hamilton station began investigating the boat burglaries and the weapons theft.

At the same time, Matawan police were searching for suspects who allegedly burglarized several cars parked in the borough and were believed to be linked to several burlgaries throughout Monmouth County. Their investigation led them to .

When Finley was arrested and interrogated by Matawan officers and NJ State Police officers, he allegedly admitted to burglarizing the boats and having the handgun and the shotgun hidden at his home, police say. Officers were able to uncover the guns, along with other proceeds from the burglary, with a search warrant, according to McPherson's letter.

McPherson wrote, "The professionalism, commitment and cooperative effort demonstrated by these officers is commendable. The NJ State Police sincerely appreciates their selfless assistance."