OCEAN COUNTY — A Lakewood man has been arrested and stolen jewelry recovered following a two-day investigation by Lakewood Township Police, authorities said.
Authorities were first called January 14 to investigate a report of a missing wallet containing jewelry of significant value. Officer Amoroso responded to the initial complaint, documented the incident and began follow-up efforts.
Detectives picked up the investigation on January 15 and, while canvassing the area, located a man attempting to sell the stolen jewelry at a local business, police said.
The suspect was identified as Melvin Torres, 33.
Torres was taken into custody by Detectives Eric Stefanelli and Austin Letts.
Police said all stolen property was recovered and returned to the victim.
Torres has been charged with theft and fencing. Investigators also determined he was wanted on an active arrest warrant at the time he was taken into custody. Police said there was no reported fraudulent use of any financial accounts.
As with all criminal matters, the charges are accusations only, and Torres is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
