MANCHESTER – A South Toms River man was charged in connection to a potential kidnapping report that led into a vehicle pursuit, police said.
Around 3 p.m. on September 3, Manchester Police received a call that a woman was being forced into a car against her will at the Wawa located at 1180 Route 70.
Officer Brian Volk quickly located the vehicle in question – a 2005 Black Chevy Tahoe – and pulled it over on County Road 530. The driver, later identified as 67-year-old Thomas Stevens of South Toms River, refused to provide an explanation or show his credentials. He then subsequently fled the scene, police said.
Officer Volk, with the assistance of Officer Jason Wiener, located the car once more and attempted a second motor vehicle stop. However, Stevens again refused to comply, leading to a vehicle pursuit for the suspected kidnapping.
The pursuit continued through Berkeley and South Toms River, and eventually concluded in the Manitou Park section of Berkeley Township. Upon apprehension, Stevens refused to cooperate with officers and was placed into custody, police said.
Authorities later determined that the passenger was Stevens’ wife, and she was not being taken against her will.
Stevens was charged with Obstruction of Justice, Eluding, Resisting Arrest, and Hindering His Own Apprehension. He was released on a summons and has been scheduled to appear in court at a later date.
“The Manchester Police Department takes all reports of potential kidnapping seriously and remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all community members,” Manchester Police said.
The charges referenced above are merely accusations and the press and public are reminded that all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
