Police: Man Tried to Steal Merchandise by Wearing It Out of Mall Store

An Indian Hill Road man was charged with shoplifting after allegedly trying to leave an Ocean County Mall store wearing merchandise he did not buy on Wednesday. 

A police investigation found that William Wutzer, 47, entered a Boscov's dressing room with a jacket, hat, gloves and two shirts and later tried to exit the store with the merchandise, according to Toms River Police Department Chief Michael Mastronardy. 

"Loss prevention officers then observed him leaving wearing the jacket and went to question him when he took off running. He was detained and all the clothing valued at over $300 was recovered," Mastronardy said. 

Wutzer was charged with shoplifting and released on a summons, the chief said. Officer Nicholas Franco responded to the incident. 

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Police are investigating a residential burglary in the township's Silver Ridge section during which electronics and over $4,000 in jewelry were reported missing. 

A Foxwood Terrace resident reported that the burglary occurred during the day on Tuesday, Mastronardy said. 

"The homeowner came home at 4 p.m. and discovered an unknown suspect forced entry into the home and stole over $4,000 in jewelry, an Apple iPod, and an HP laptop," Mastronardy said.

Officer Josh Pedalino and Corporal Paul Burkhardt are investigating, according to the chief.