LAKEWOOD — A 29-year-old man was arrested after police said he struck another individual with a belt during an early morning dispute in Lakewood.
Officers responding to Clifton Avenue on March 21 observed two men involved in a verbal confrontation, according to authorities. During the incident, Kevin Vazquez, of Jamesburg, allegedly removed his belt and used it to hit the other man in the neck.
Police intervened, separated the individuals and prevented the situation from escalating further. The victim reported neck pain at the scene but did not require immediate transport, officials said.
Vazquez was taken into custody without incident and processed at police headquarters. He was charged with assault and a weapons-related offense before being transported to the Ocean County Jail.
Authorities emphasized that the charges are accusations and that Vazquez is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
