Former Point Pleasant Borough Man Charged in Local Burglaries

A former Point Pleasant Borough man was charged Thursday in connection with summertime burglaries at several local businesses.

William Richards, 28, who lived on Kickapoo Avenue, was charged with one count of third-degree burglary and one count of criminal mischief for allegedly burglarizing the Riptide Grill at 3126 Bridge Avenue on July 29, said Capt. Richard Larsen.

The Riptide Grill has since closed.

The criminal mischief charge is for allegedly causing more than $500 worth of damage, Larsen said.

He also was charged with one count each of burglary, theft and criminal mischief in connection with a burglary at The Cookie Lady, 2501 Route 88, on Aug. 7, when cash was allegedly stolen.

Richards was also charged with one count of third-degree burglary in connection with a burglary at the Shore House Tavern, 2114 Route 88. He was also charged with one count of fourth-degree theft, for allegedly stealing cash, and one count of fourth-degree criminal mischief.

Williams was also charged with third-degree burglary and criminal mischief, specifically a disorderly persons offense, in connection with an Aug. 11 burglary at New China 88 Restaurant, 2700 Route 88.

Police are not disclosing how much cash Williams allegedly stole from businesses.

Williams is lodged at Middlesex County jail on an unrelated charge, Larsen said. He has been lodged there since December.