Stafford Township, NJ – On February 4th, 2025 at approximately 8:18pm Kenneth Nelson 39 years old of Sunrise HWY 333, Rockville NY was placed under arrest for stealing approximately $1,674 of merchandise from the Lowe’s Home Improvement located at 297 Route 72 West, in Manahawkin. The accused attempted to flee from officers on foot, but was quickly apprehended. Kenneth Nelson Sr. age 68, also out of Sunrise HWY 333, Rockville NY, was operating the getaway vehicle outside of the establishment. Nelson Sr. was also placed under arrest for conspiracy to shoplift. Nelson Jr. was transported to police headquarters, charged with Shoplifting 2C:20-11, and lodged in Ocean County Jail with a criminal complaint warrant to appear in Ocean County Superior Court. His father, Nelson Sr. was taken back to police headquarters, charged with Shoplifting 2C:20-11, and issued a criminal complaint summons to appear in Ocean County Superior Court. Officer Gerardo Jorge #119 and Officer Bryan Brown #126 were the arresting officers. 

As a reminder, the Stafford Township Police Department does not release arrest photos of defendants. All individuals are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.