Stafford Township, NJ – On February 13, 2026, the Stafford Township Police Department concluded a fraudulent check washing investigation that occurred on January 5, 2026. As a result of the investigation, Joshua Stewart, 37-year-old Male of West Valley, Utah, was charged with one count of 3rd degree Theft by Deception, in violation of N.J.S.A 2C:20-4 and one count of 4th degree Forgery, in violation of N.J.S.A 2C:21-1A(1). The charges were placed on a complaint-warrant. Information was passed along to the Berkely Township Police Department's Detective Bureau as the investigation revealed possible similar occurrences in their jurisdiction. Patrolman Pharo was the investigating 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.