Last month, a man stole an engine from a boat in Lakewood’s Lake Carasaljo, and the incident was caught on video – exclusively provided to TLS.

On April 23, officers responded to the Traveling Tykes Marina for a report of a theft involving a Mercury boat engine that had been removed from a vessel owned by the marina. Detectives conducted an investigation utilizing various investigative techniques, which ultimately led to the identification of William Cottrell, 41, of Toms River, as the suspect involved.

On May 19, Cottrell was charged with burglary and theft related offenses and was later taken into custody without incident.

Chief Gregory H. Meyer praised the efforts of the officers and detectives involved in the case. “This investigation is a great example of the persistence and teamwork displayed by our officers and detectives,” Meyer said. “Their efforts, along with the assistance of our law enforcement partners, helped bring this case to a successful conclusion.”

Traveling Tykes owner, Yonoson Ely, told TLS he was impressed by the great work of the Lakewood Police Department, and wanted to publicly thank Chief Meyer and the detectives for apprehending the suspect.