MANCHESTER — A man accused of breaking into a convenience store in the Whiting section of Manchester Township has been arrested following an investigation by township detectives, police said.
Authorities said the burglary happened May 9 at the Country Farms convenience store. Surveillance footage allegedly showed the suspect smashing the store’s front window with a large rock before entering the business.
Detectives Guarino and Guker identified the suspect as Keith Mulligan during the investigation, according to police.
Investigators later learned Mulligan’s vehicle had been seen May 12 in Evesham Township, Burlington County. Further investigation revealed he was known to frequent the Barclay Towers condominium complex in Cherry Hill.
Detectives responded to the area on May 13 and located Mulligan’s vehicle, police said. Officers found him sleeping inside the car and took him into custody without incident.
Mulligan was transported to Manchester Township Police Headquarters and charged with burglary, criminal mischief, theft by unlawful taking and shoplifting. After processing, he was taken to the Ocean County Jail.
Police emphasized that the charges are accusations and that Mulligan is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Officials also encouraged residents to report suspicious activity to local law enforcement. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Manchester Township Police by calling 732-657-6111 or through the department’s website at manchesterpolicenj.com using the “Tip Line” feature.
