At approximately 8:30 this morning, a 50 year old Woodlake Manor resident observed an unknown male, later identified as 20 year old Jesus Penuala of Lakewood, opening her front door. While confronting him, she shut the front door but not before her dog ran from inside of the house. The victim then exited the residence to retrieve her dog and observed that Penuala had moved on to a neighboring property. As the victim was returning to her residence, he began chasing after her back into her home. He then pushed his way through the front door.
Once inside, Penuala grabbed her by the shoulders and began demanding money and jewelry. He then ordered her to stay with him as he navigated throughout the home looking for valuables. After taking several items, the suspect fled through a back sliding door and the victim ran out of the front door. As the victim exited the house she was met by her daughter who had just arrived to pick her up for an appointment. Her 20 year old daughter then ran to the backyard and observed Penuala riding away on a bike. As she begins to chase after him, he threw a bag containing the proceeds of the robbery towards her.
Responding Officer Tymur Zavalnyuk observed Penuala riding his bike along Ridge Avenue and was able to place him under arrest without incident.
Further investigation by Detective Kevin Donnelly, determined that the bicycle Penuala was using was stolen. In addition, an imitation firearm as well as other stolen property was located in his backpack. The stolen property has been linked to several other recent burglaries in Lakewood.
Although this investigation is still active, Jesus Penuala has been charged with the following in connection to today’s incident; Kidnapping, Robbery, Armed Burglary, Possession of an Imitation Firearm for an Unlawful Purpose, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon and Terroristic Threats. Additional charges are pending. He was subsequently transported to Ocean County Jail.