Police Blotter: Officer Hurt Investigating Criminal Mischief

May 2: Police responded to a report that an 8-inch snake was discovered inside Wine Sellers of Holmdel. The harmless corn snake was captured and brought to neighboring PetSmart. PetSmart Manager Dave James accepted the snake into the store, but would not confirm nor deny it escaped from the store. "Our habitats are secure, with self-locking latches.  There is no way a snake can escape," he said, demonstrating the security feature in the snake display. "Someone could have bought the snake and lost it in the parking lot." Like all of the animals at PetsSmart, the snake is not dangerous, said James. 

May 1: Three motorcyclists sustained non life-threatening injuries after a deer ran across Route 35 at Holmdel Firewood near Union Avenue at 9:45 a.m, said police. The adult men were taken to Riverview, were treated and released. The road, which had been closed for about an hour, reopened 10:49.

May 1: Police responded to a brush fire at 24 Painted Wagon Road in Holmdel.  Upon arrival, patrol officers found the blaze had been knocked down by a neighbor with a garden hose, with the fire ultimately being extinguished by the Holmdel Fire Department. Discovered at the scene were pieces of aluminum or other metal, possibly from a household object, which were found to be part of some type of device ignited and exploded deliberately, causing the subsequent woods fire. Holmdel police officers were assisted by the New Jersey State Police Bomb Squad and the Monmouth County Fire Marshal’s Office. Anyone with information is urged to call police at 732-946-4400.

 April 29: While investigating criminal mischief at an abandoned house at Peck Farms on Route 35, Det. Ed Martinez fell through the floor and suffered "substantial injury," according to Lt. Michael Smith. Martinez was transported to Bayshore Community Hospital, where he was treated and later released. 

There has been as many as 20 criminal mischief incidents, many involving racially-charged graffiti, in the northern section of the township in recent months, said Smith. Township businesses, residences, playgrounds, and vehicles have been damaged. The Holmdel Police Department urges anyone with any information or who has been a witness to any of these incidents to call Lt. Michael Smith at 732-946-4400 ext 1761

April 21: Allen Stenquist Jr., 37 Union Beach NJ was arrested and charged for hindering apprehension and driving while suspended as a result of a motor vehicle stop on Highway 35. 

April 24: Linda Roberts, 47, Holmdel NJ was arrested and charged for disorderly conduct as a result of an incident in front of Houlihans in the Holmdel Commons 

 A criminal charge represents an accusation; defendants named are presumed innocent until proven guilty.