Stafford Township, NJ – On February 17, 2026 at approximately 6:08 PM, Christine T. Messenger (57 years old of Mast Drive in Barnegat, NJ) was placed under arrest for stealing approximately $136 of merchandise from Target located at 209 Stafford Park Boulevard in Manahawkin. Messenger was transported to police headquarters, charged with Shoplifting 2C:20-11, and released with a criminal complaint summons to appear in Stafford Municipal Court. Messenger also had and outstanding warrant out of Mays Landing Municipal Court who requested Messenger be released on her own recognizance pending a future court date. Officer William Gallagher was the arresting officer.
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.