Ocean Acres Car Thief Found And Arrested

Photo courtesy Stafford Police

STAFFORD – A Manahawkin resident has been charged and arrested after the theft of two vehicles from the Ocean Acres area of Stafford Township, Stafford Police officials said.

Brittney Johnson, 31, was arrested and charged with two counts of Theft of Moveable Property in the 3rd degree, one count of Theft of Moveable Property as a Disorderly Persons Offense, Burglary in the 3rd degree, and Theft by Deception as a Disorderly Persons Offense.

On March 17, Stafford police responded to the area of Leeward Rd. and Gaff Rd. in Ocean Acres after a report was made of a stolen vehicle. A 2002 white Hyundai Elantra was stolen from the victim’s driveway after it was left running and unlocked.

Police later identified Johnson as the suspect, after finding her behind the wheel of the stolen Hyundai around the area of New Washington Ave. She was arrested on the scene.

Police later discovered that Johnson had also stolen a 2014 black Honda Accord near Privateer Dr. on March 15. The Honda was stolen in a similar fashion, said police, and was found the next day near Hull Rd.

Not only did she steal the vehicles, but Johnson also took and used one of the latest victim’s credit cards and stole cash from each car. She is currently being held in the Ocean County Jail.

Patrolman Vincent was the arresting officer assisted by Patrolman Fenlon.