BRICK – A township man faces multiple criminal charges after police said he sped away from an officer near Brick Memorial High School, nearly struck two crossing guards and fled through several backyards.
Corey Goodwin, 38, of Brick, was arrested Sept. 8 following a pursuit that began shortly after 7 a.m. on Lanes Mill Road, according to the Brick Township Police Department.
Traffic Safety Officer David Thergesen was monitoring the area when he noticed a vehicle stopped along the shoulder while students were being dropped off. Police said Thergesen approached the driver and instructed him to move the vehicle.
During the exchange, the officer noticed Goodwin was not wearing a seat belt and directed him to enter the Boland Field parking lot, where the traffic stop could be completed safely, authorities said.
Goodwin turned on his signal and appeared ready to follow the officer’s instructions before allegedly accelerating north on Lanes Mill Road. Police said he entered the opposing lane to pass vehicles and came close to hitting two uniformed crossing guards who were controlling traffic.
Thergesen returned to his patrol vehicle and pursued Goodwin. Another officer conducting radar enforcement nearby recorded Goodwin traveling at 73 mph, according to police.
Authorities said Goodwin eventually stopped outside a Lanes Mill Road home and ran from the vehicle. Officers followed him through yards near Sawmill and Creek roads. He allegedly crossed a creek before officers captured him near Greenwood Loop Road.
Goodwin was charged with eluding, aggravated assault on a police officer, hindering apprehension and obstructing the administration of law. Police also discovered two outstanding warrants for his arrest.
He received numerous traffic summonses, including reckless driving, passing in a no-passing zone, disregarding an officer directing traffic and failing to stop for a crossing guard’s whistle.
Goodwin was taken to the Ocean County Jail.
Police said officers were conducting increased enforcement around township schools to protect students, crossing guards, employees, pedestrians and drivers. The department also referenced a recent fatal collision involving a bicyclist in the area, although authorities emphasized that the two incidents were unrelated.
The department urged motorists to slow down, remain attentive and follow the directions of police and crossing guards, particularly during school arrival and dismissal periods.
The charges are accusations, and Goodwin is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
