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Two Suspects, Including Howell Man, Charged in Gym Locker Identity Theft Scheme

May 7, 2026·2 min read

Two Monmouth County men have been charged in an identity theft scheme that targeted members of a Wall Township gym, police said Wednesday.

Andrew Cosenza, 26, of Manasquan, and Edward Byham, 35, of Howell, were arrested following an investigation into thefts from secured lockers at Genesis Health Club on Atlantic Avenue, according to Wall police.

Police said Detective Michael Caccitore determined that Cosenza would legally check into the gym and then let Byham inside through a side door to avoid screening at the front desk. Once inside, the pair allegedly stole cash, credit cards and personal items from lockers.

Investigators said the stolen information was later used in a “bust-out” cellular fraud scheme, in which stolen identities are used to open mobile electronics accounts and finance high-value devices, including iPhones, Apple Watches and AirPods, with no intent to pay. Police said the electronics were being shipped to an address connected to Cosenza.

Authorities also recovered stolen passport cards, driver’s licenses from Georgia and New York, several stolen credit and debit cards, and counterfeit checks. Cosenza was also allegedly found with suspected heroin and prescription pills.

Cosenza was charged with credit card fraud, theft by unlawful taking and possession of a controlled dangerous substance. Byham was charged with identity theft, credit card theft and receiving stolen property.

“This investigation shows the commitment of our Detective Bureau to protecting our residents from those who use stolen information for financial gain,” Wall Police Lt. Steven Nash said.

Both men were processed and taken to the Monmouth County Jail.

Two Suspects, Including Howell Man, Charged in Gym Locker Identity Theft Scheme | Jooish News