JACKSON – A Howell Township man’s attempt to remove incriminating material was unsuccessful and led to his being charged with possession of child pornography and endangering the welfare of children.
Around 7 p.m. on November 25, a vehicle operated by Matthew Efendiev, 38, was stopped on Farmingdale Road by Jackson Police Officer Tristan Bennett.
Efendiev was pulled over following a report of a suspicious vehicle in the area of Sapphire Drive. Efendiev attempted to get rid of the evidence, according to police.
He had continued to drive a short distance before he finally stopped for Bennett who had observed him tossing an item from his car window.
The item was retrieved by Bennett which was revealed to be a camera containing images and videos of prepubescent children of both genders engaged in sexual acts.
Police officers from Jackson and Howell and the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, conducted a search of Efendiev’s home. Several electronic devices and drives were confiscated by authorities, according to police.
It is not believed that Efendiev had any contact with the victims. The images appear to be from online sources according to police.
The investigation is ongoing and Efendiev was transported to the Ocean County Jail in Toms River and was later released from custody.
Those with any additional information pertaining to this case are urged to call Jackson Police Detective Michael Goelz at 732-928-111.
