Stafford Township, NJ - On November 24, 2024 at approximately 12:30 P.M., patrol officers from the Stafford Township Police Department were dispatched to the IHOP located at 297 Route 72 West in Manahawkin in response to a report of a theft. It was alleged that an unidentified male had stolen a tip jar containing cash intended for the support of a homeless veteran.

Detective Conner of the Stafford Township Police Department's Detective Bureau was assigned to the investigation. Through investigative efforts, Detective Conner identified the suspect as 51 year old Joselito Montalvo of Center Street in Forked River. Following the investigation, Montalvo was issued a criminal complaint summons for Theft Under $200 (2C:20-3A), with a court appearance scheduled in Stafford Township Municipal Court. 

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.