The Lakewood Police Department has announced the arrest of a woman following an investigation into multiple incidents involving damaged and stolen Verizon utility wiring throughout Lakewood Township.
According to police, officers responded on April 9, 2026, to several reports of Verizon wires that had been intentionally cut from utility poles at multiple locations across the township. Detectives subsequently launched an investigation and reviewed surveillance footage from the affected areas.
Through investigative efforts, along with assistance from Lakewood Shomrim, detectives were able to identify a vehicle believed to be connected to the incidents.
On May 12, officers from the Toms River Police Department detained the vehicle and its occupants during an unrelated investigation. Lakewood detectives responded to the scene and identified one of the occupants as the suspect seen in surveillance footage tied to the wire theft investigation.
Police said Bobbi Joe Dunn was subsequently arrested and charged with multiple counts of criminal mischief and theft offenses. She was lodged in the Ocean County Jail pending court proceedings.
Lakewood Police Chief Greg Meyer praised the coordinated efforts of the officers, detectives, dispatchers, and community partners involved in the case.
“This case highlights the importance of teamwork and strong partnerships between law enforcement agencies and community organizations,” Meyer said. “The quick sharing of information and proactive police work helped bring this investigation to a successful conclusion.”
The investigation was conducted by the Lakewood Police Department with assistance from Lakewood Shomrim and the Toms River Police Department.
