Fraud Reported as Social Security Number Compromised
On November 5, Officer Colin Brigham met with the victim of fraud in the Hopewell Township Police Department lobby. The victim reported that their social security number was compromised and used to open up a line of credit in Maryland. The outstanding debt had since been sent to collections, negatively affecting the victim’s credit score. Information from the collection agency and the debt incurred was forwarded to the officer for follow-up investigation.
Brush Fire Near Golf Course Extinguished by Firefighters
On November 7, at 9am, Officer Eric Lei and police and fire units responded to the Hopewell Valley Golf Course for a reported brush fire. The fire was located in a large wooded area near the driving range. The fire was extinguished by firefighters. This brush fire is one of a few others over the past month due to extremely dry conditions.
Copper Piping Stolen from Commercial Property on Route 31
On November 11, Officer Michael Enriquez responded to a call for a reported theft of copper at a commercial property on North Route 31 address. Copper piping was cut and stolen from the off of the building’s AC unit. Because the property is currently up for sale, the timeframe of the offense is unknown at this time. The matter is under investigation.
Victim Risks Financial Loss in FTC Scam Investigation
On November 12, Officer Ryan Finnegan met with the victim of fraud in the HTPD lobby. The victim reported that she received a call from someone identifying themselves as an agent of the Federal Trade Commission. The person advised the victim that they were identified in an investigation involving money laundering and fraud through electronic means. The victim was directed to remove funds and send payment before an arrest warrant would be issued. The victim’s identity was confirmed to be compromised, but no financial loss was incurred. The matter is under investigation.
Job Scam Costs Victim $2,125 Through Zelle Payments
On November 15, Officer Lei met with the victim of fraud in the HTPD lobby. The victim stated that he was defrauded out of $2,125. The victim received an email about a job opening and was instructed to forward funds via Zelle and additional money to a separate party for supplies for the job. The victim stated they realized there was something suspicious when their bank account showed to be overdrawn days later. The information regarding their communications was forwarded to Officer Lei for follow-up.
Intoxicated Person Arrested for DUI at Pennington Shop Rite
On November 16, 2024 Sgt Adam Liotta responded to the Shop Rite of Pennington for a reported intoxicated person on the property. Liotta made contact with the accused party. Through investigation on scene, the individual appeared intoxicated and was ultimately placed under arrest for DUI. They were arrested on scene and transported to HTPD for processing and charged with DUI, reckless driving, and failure to submit to chemical breath testing. He was later released, and the matter will be heard in Municipal Court.
This information was provided by the Hopewell Township Police Department.
Photo courtesy of Pennington Fire Company.
